Irresistible Crispy Pasta Salad Recipe
This crispy pasta salad is a unique dish featuring air-fried rotini for a crunchy texture, bold Italian flavors, and a zesty dressing, perfect for potlucks and easy dinners.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
Crispy Pasta & Salad
- 12 oz. uncooked rotini pasta
- 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 2/3 cup diced green pepper
- 1/3 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup cubed provolone (1/4-inch cubes)
- 1 cup cubed hard salami (1/4-inch cubes)
- 1/2 cup pitted black or Kalamata olives
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Dressing
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
Cooking Pasta and Air Frying
- Cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Drain and toss pasta with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
- Air fry the pasta for 20 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes for even crisping.
- Let the crispy pasta cool to room temperature.
Preparing Salad and Dressing
- Combine cherry tomatoes, green pepper, red onion, provolone, salami, and olives in a large bowl.
- Whisk red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper; slowly add olive oil and emulsify.
Assembling and Serving
- Pour dressing over vegetables and toss to coat.
- Stir in crispy pasta and top with grated Parmesan; serve immediately.
Notes
Air frying the pasta creates a unique crispy texture unlike traditional pasta salads. Make sure to shake the air fryer basket regularly. Leftovers are best stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days. Variations include vegetarian and Greek-style versions.