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To create a truly memorable dish, it’s essential to understand the key components that make up Colorful Italian Pasta Salad Skewers. Each ingredient contributes not only to the overall flavor and texture but also to the visual appeal that makes this dish so inviting.

Italian Pasta Salad Skewers

Get ready to impress at your summer gatherings with Colorful Italian Pasta Salad Skewers! Bursting with vibrant fresh vegetables, flavorful cheeses, and delicious salami, these skewers are a fun twist on traditional pasta salad. Perfect for picnics and barbecues, they’re easy to assemble and customizable based on your preferences. Enjoy a delightful blend of textures and flavors while making lasting memories with friends and family—perfect for any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. gemelli pasta (or any short pasta)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved or whole

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cucumber, diced

1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

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

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the gemelli pasta and cook according to package instructions, ensuring it reaches al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool completely.

      Prepare the Dressing:

        In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is well emulsified. Set the dressing aside for the flavors to meld.

          Combine the Ingredients:

            In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls (either halved or whole), diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, bite-sized pieces of salami, and fresh basil leaves.

              Incorporate the Dressing:

                Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Using a gentle folding motion, toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

                  Assemble the Skewers:

                    Take a skewer and begin layering the ingredients: start with a cherry tomato, followed by a mozzarella ball, a slice of salami, a piece of cucumber, a piece of bell pepper, and a few leaves of basil. Continue the pattern until the skewer is filled, ensuring there’s enough space at both ends for easy handling.

                      Top with Parmesan:

                        Once all the skewers are assembled, generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each skewer for an extra burst of flavor.

                          Chill and Serve:

                            Arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal, perfect for gatherings or picnics.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 8 servings.

                                Presentation Tips: Arrange the skewers on a colorful platter with some fresh basil leaves scattered around for garnish. For added flair, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the skewers before serving.