Italian pasta salad with pepperoni and cheddar

What’s not to love about pepperoni and cheddar in a pasta salad? Try this dish for your next potluck or simple summer dinner.

Pasta salad with pepperoni and cheddar

This simple pasta salad is a hit with kids, particularly because it uses pizza toppings like pepperoni and cheese. It keeps great in the fridge, so make it a day in advance.

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients:

1 pound pasta of choice (shown: amorini or “corkscrew” pasta)
1 tablespoon olive oil
20 pepperoni pieces, sliced
6 ounces white cheddar cheese, cubed
1 red bell pepper, stem and seeds discarded, thinly sliced
1 cup store-bought Italian vinaigrette dressing

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package directions. When cooked, drain and run under cool water. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and add the olive oil. Toss well to coat the pasta.
To the pasta, add the pepperoni, cheese and bell pepper. Toss gently to combine.
Add half of the Italian vinaigrette and toss to evenly coat the pasta in dressing. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least an hour and up to a day. Just before serving, add the remaining half of the vinaigrette and stir to combine.