Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound black bean pasta, rotini, or bowtie pasta (dyed with black food coloring)
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
- 1 can (approx. 2.25 oz) sliced black olives
- 2 large orange bell peppers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian vinaigrette dressing
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Salami slices cut into star shapes
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. If you are using standard pasta, add a few drops of black gel food coloring to the water to achieve a dark, spooky look. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta immediately and rinse it under cold running water. Rinsing stops the cooking process and prevents the noodles from sticking together while you prepare the rest of the salad.
- Step 2: Carve the Peppers and Prep Mix-ins While the pasta cools, prepare your vegetables. Take the orange bell peppers and cut them into small squares, or use a tiny paring knife to carve “Jack-o’-lantern” faces into larger slices for a decorative touch. To create the “monster eyes,” take the mozzarella pearls and press a small slice of black olive into the center of each one. The moisture from the cheese will help the olive stay in place. Dice the red onion and chop the fresh parsley finely.
- Step 3: Assemble and Toss In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, the carved orange peppers, the mozzarella eyes, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Pour the Italian vinaigrette over the mixture and toss gently to ensure every piece is coated. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top for extra flavor and texture. If you have time, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to soak into the pasta.
- Step 4: Final Presentation Transfer the salad to a festive serving bowl. Place the “monster eye” mozzarella pearls on top so they are visible to your guests. If you opted for salami stars, scatter them across the top to complete the celestial, spooky aesthetic. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes