SPICY ITALIAN PASTA SALAD WITH HAM AND PEPPERONCINI

Spicy Italian Pasta Salad with Ham and Pepperoncini image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 30m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 12

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 small minced shallot
8 ounces dried gemelli pasta
4 ounces ham, cut into thin matchsticks
1 cup halved grape tomatoes
1/2 cup thinly sliced celery
1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup stemmed, chopped pepperoncini
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

Steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Whisk the oil, vinegar, red pepper flakes, shallot, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper together in a large bowl.
Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Add to the bowl with the dressing.
Add the ham, tomatoes, celery, basil, pepperoncini and oregano to the bowl and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. The pasta salad is best if served right away.