Why Make This Recipe

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic dinners; it can also be a day to share love through delicious food. This Valentine’s Day Pasta Salad is a fun, colorful, and easy-to-make dish that adds a festive touch to your celebration. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a cozy dinner at home. Plus, its heart-shaped pasta makes it a charming choice to show your affection.

How to Make Valentine’s Day Pasta Salad

Ingredients

8 oz heart-shaped pasta
4 oz salami, sliced
4 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Cook the heart-shaped pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the salami, mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve Valentine’s Day Pasta Salad

Serve this delightful pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It works well as a side dish or a light main course. Pair it with some crusty bread and a glass of your favorite wine for a complete meal. Don’t forget to arrange it beautifully in a bowl to showcase its vibrant colors and heart shape!

How to Store Valentine’s Day Pasta Salad

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just be aware that the pasta might absorb some of the dressing over time, so you may want to add a bit more oil and vinegar before serving again.

Tips to Make Valentine’s Day Pasta Salad

Make sure to let the pasta cool before mixing it with other ingredients to prevent them from wilting.
Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
If you’re short on time, pre-cooked pasta can save you a step.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, you can skip the salami and add in some chickpeas or more vegetables. You can also try different types of cheese, such as feta or cheddar, to change the flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and add the dressing before serving for the best results.

Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer; just make sure it’s cooked according to package instructions.

What other ingredients can I add?
You can add items like artichokes, spinach, or capers to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the salad. Just get creative!