Picnic Season, Barbecue Season, but always Charcuterie Season!
During this time of the year with picnics, graduations, lake trips, barbecues, and summer holidays- I am always looking for cold side dish or appetizer recipes. This “Charcuterie” or Italian Pasta Salad is perfect to make in advance and bring along anywhere OR make at the beginning of the week and have as refrigerator go-to.
I am an Italian girl- so these just might be my FAVORITE foods all in one dish. Let’s Build It:
Lay a bed of cooked pasta in a bowl or large serving platter (preferably with a little depth because your will be stirring in the dressing later). I promised there is pasta under all those goodies- haha!
On top of the pasta add chopped: olives, pepperoncinis, and marinated artichokes
For the next layer I added an entire tub of small marinated mozzarella cheese balls. Cut them in fourths if desired. Tip: add some of the marinade onto the pasta for extra flavor and spice.
Add sliced cherry tomatoes. I used a colorful variety!
Finally the Charcuterie. Cut Spicy and Italian Dry Salami into strips using kitchen scissors and place as the next layer.
Diced cucumbers and red onion are next!
Lastly- add on Italian Dressing and refrigerate.
I love this recipe because it doesn’t end here. Add Trader Joe's Italian Bomba Hot Pepper Sauce for a kick of spice. Add Pesto if you are looking for more flavor. Or even drizzle some balsamic glaze! I often make this recipe at the beginning of the week and on day two or three add in these sauces to change it up!
Ciao! Sarah J