Italian Pasta Salad Skewers

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with Italian Pasta Salad Skewers, a fun twist on a traditional favorite. Perfect for gatherings or picnics, these skewers feature vibrant ingredients like cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella, and your choice of meats. Learn how to select the best pasta, make a delicious dressing, and assemble your skewers for a stunning presentation. Ideal for any occasion, these bites are sure to impress your guests with their burst of flavor and appeal.

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Ingredients

8 oz. (about 225g) short pasta (such as rotini or penne)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained

1 cup diced cucumber

1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved

1/2 cup salami, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Wooden skewers (or metal skewers)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the short pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Assemble the Skewers: Take a wooden skewer and begin to thread the ingredients in an alternating fashion. Start with a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball, a piece of cucumber, a salami slice, and a black olive. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is nearly filled, ensuring to leave some space at the end for easy handling. Finish off with a fresh basil leaf on top for an aromatic touch.

Mix with Dressing (Optional): If you prefer a more cohesive flavor, you can place the pasta in a large bowl and gently toss it with the prepared dressing before threading it onto the skewers. This method will infuse every bite with the dressing's flavors.

Serve: Arrange the skewers artfully on a serving platter. For an elegant finish, garnish with any leftover basil leaves or a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper. These skewers can be served right away or chilled in the refrigerator for about an hour to enhance the mingling of flavors.

Enjoy: These Italian Pasta Salad Skewers are ideal for gatherings, picnics, or simply when you're looking for a fresh twist on traditional pasta salad!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 6-8