Pizza Salad II
Why choose between pizza and pasta when you can have both in one refreshing bowl? Our Pizza Salad II takes everything you love about a classic supreme pizza pepperoni, olives, bell peppers, and cheese and tosses it with tender shell pasta in a zesty Italian dressing. It’s the ultimate make-ahead side dish that stays fresh and flavorful for any gathering!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|
| 15 Minutes | 10 Minutes | 8-10 Servings |
Ingredients
- The Base: 1 (16 oz) package Small Shell Pasta.
- Fresh Veggies: 1 Red Bell Pepper (chopped), 1 Green Bell Pepper (chopped), 1 Tomato (chopped), 5 Green Onions (chopped).
- Pizza Toppings: 1 (4.5 oz) can Sliced Mushrooms (drained), 2 1/2 oz Sliced Pepperoni Sausage, 1 (2.25 oz) can Sliced Black Olives (drained).
- Zesty Seasoning: 2 cloves Garlic (minced), 1 tsp Dried Oregano, 1/2 tsp Salt, 1/4 tsp Black Pepper.
- The Dressing & Cheese: 1 cup Italian-style Salad Dressing, 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella, 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese.
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook shell pasta until al dente. Rinse immediately under cold water and drain well to stop the cooking process.
- Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, peppers, tomato, onions, mushrooms, pepperoni, olives, and garlic.
- Season: Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute the spices.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled (at least 1-2 hours).
- Final Toss: Just before serving, pour in the Italian dressing, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until every shell is coated and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Carbs | 36g |
| Protein | 9g |
Pro Tips for a Better Salad
- Don't Overcook: Keep the pasta firm (al dente) so it doesn't get mushy after sitting in the dressing.
- Cold Rinse is Key: Rinsing with cold water removes excess starch and ensures the shells don't stick together.
- Dress it Late: Adding the dressing right before serving keeps the pasta from absorbing all the liquid, keeping the salad moist and glossy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different pasta shapes?
A: Definitely! Rotini (spirals) or Farfalle (bow ties) work great as they hold the dressing and cheese well.
A: Definitely! Rotini (spirals) or Farfalle (bow ties) work great as they hold the dressing and cheese well.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making it a perfect meal-prep option.
A: It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making it a perfect meal-prep option.
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