Italian Pasta Salad

Step 1

In a large pot of salted water, cook pasta in the water according to the package directions on the box for al dente, or the minimum cooking time. You want your pasta to be cooked, but still have a little bite. Place in a colander to drain, and quickly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the pasta drain as much as possible.

Step 2

Prep your vegetables by dicing and chopping your broccoli, bell pepper, cucumber, onion (optional) and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3

Drain your olives and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4

Slice pepperoni and cheese if needed into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5

In a medium-sized bowl combine garlic powder, oregano, parsley, sugar, salt and pepper together and mix well.

Step 6

Next to the spices add oil, vinegar and lemon juice. With a whisk quickly whip together all the dressing ingredients until combined.

Step 7

In a large bowl combine pasta, all vegetables, meat, cheese and dressing. Mix well. Chill well!

Step 8

Garnish with fresh chopped basil, parsley and a little parmesan just before serving if desired!