Creamy Italian Pasta Salad with Sharp Cheddar and Habanero Jack

Ingredients

• 12 oz Tricolor Rotini (boiled and rinsed with cold water)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 8 oz Land O Lakes Extra Sharp Cheddar and Habanero Jack Cheese Cubes (one bag)
• 0.33 cup banana peppers (drained)
• 0.5 red onion (chopped)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (heaping cup, sliced)
• 0.33 cup pepperoni (chopped)
• 0.33 cup salami (chopped)

Steps

1. 1

   Boil the tricolor rotini on the stove following the directions on the package until al dente.

2. 2

   Drain the pasta and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process; set aside.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

4. 4

   Stir the dressing mixture well until all spices are evenly distributed.

5. 5

   Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing.

6. 6

   Add the 8 oz bag of Land O Lakes Extra Sharp Cheddar and Habanero Jack Cheese Cubes, drained banana peppers, chopped red onion, sliced cherry tomatoes, chopped pepperoni, and chopped salami.

7. 7

   Stir everything together well until the pasta and vegetables are thoroughly coated in the dressing.

8. 8

   Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving at a barbecue or party.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• side dish
• pasta salad
• summer
• barbecue
• Italian
• easy