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Easy Cheesy Bento Box Pasta Salad with Mini Pepperoni

Easy Cheesy Bento Box Pasta Salad - featured image
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A quick and easy pasta salad featuring warm melted cheese, mini pepperoni, fresh veggies, and a light vinaigrette, perfect for lunches or no-fuss dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or mini shells
  • 1 cup (100 grams) mini pepperoni, sliced thinly
  • 1 cup (100 grams) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (75 grams) diced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup (75 grams) halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup (40 grams) finely chopped red onion (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 quarts (3.8 liters) of salted water to a boil in a medium pot. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Shake off excess water well.
  3. Return pasta to the pot or a warm bowl. Immediately add 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheese and gently toss until the cheese starts to melt and coats the pasta nicely.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Add mini pepperoni slices, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion (if using) to the cheesy pasta. Pour dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly.
  6. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon chopped basil or parsley on top and give a light toss.
  7. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. The salad keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Notes

Toss cheese with warm pasta to create a creamy coating. Rinse pasta under cold water immediately after cooking to prevent mushiness. Adjust dressing seasoning to taste. If salad is dry after refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil or a splash of water before serving. Pack heavier ingredients like pepperoni on the bottom and herbs on top to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, cheesy pasta salad, mini pepperoni, bento box lunch, easy pasta salad, quick lunch, kid-friendly, creamy pasta salad

Find it online: https://recipebelle.com/easy-cheesy-bento-box-pasta-salad-with-mini-pepperoni-recipe-ideas/