Italian Pasta Salad Skewers

As the sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, summer brings a vibrant array of flavors that are synonymous with Italian cuisine. Known for its fresh ingredients and hearty flavors, Italian cooking offers an abundance of dishes perfect for outdoor gatherings. One such delightful dish is the Italian Pasta Salad Skewers. This innovative take on a classic pasta salad provides a fun and portable option that’s sure to please any crowd.

Discover the deliciousness of Italian Pasta Salad Skewers, the perfect warm-weather treat! This vibrant dish combines pasta, fresh vegetables, cheese, and meats into a fun, portable format that's ideal for picnics and barbecues. With options like elbow macaroni or fusilli, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty meats, these skewers are not only tasty but also customizable to suit any palate. Perfect for gatherings, indulge in the fresh flavors of summer!

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Ingredients

8 oz (about 2 cups) of elbow macaroni or fusilli pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved

1 cup sliced pepperoni or salami, rolled

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Skewers (6-inch or 8-inch)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni or fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, pepperoni or salami, cucumber, black olives, basil leaves, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Assemble the Skewers: Thread the ingredients onto skewers, alternating between pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoni, cucumber, olives, and basil leaves for a colorful presentation. Aim for about 3-4 items per skewer.

Chill and Serve: Place the assembled skewers on a plate or in a container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 12 skewers