Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) Rotini or Fusilli pasta
  • 1 tbsp (15g) Salt
  • 8 oz (225g) Mini mozzarella pearls
  • 6 oz (170g) Pepperoni, diced
  • 1 cup (150g) English cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup (150g) Red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup (50g) Red onion, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup (60g) Black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup (15g) Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp (5g) Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (5g) Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp (5g) Dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) Salt
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) Black pepper
  • 1 tsp (5g) Sugar

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, stopping 1 minute early to ensure it is al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta into a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and remove excess surface starch.
  3. In a mason jar or bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk vigorously until emulsified.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mozzarella pearls, diced pepperoni, cucumber, red bell pepper, minced red onion, sliced black olives, and chopped parsley.
  5. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow flavors to fuse before serving.