Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

I’ve been hooked on pasta salad ever since I was a kid, sneaking spoonfuls from my mom’s giant mixing bowl at family cookouts. The way those colorful veggies, twirly noodles, and zesty dressing came together always felt like a little party in my mouth. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together—whether it’s a sunny picnic or a cozy dinner at home. Now, as an adult, I love whipping up my own version, tweaking it to fit whatever I’m craving or what’s in my fridge.

This recipe is my tried-and-true take, perfected over years of potlucks and lazy weeknight dinners. It’s fresh, vibrant, and so easy to throw together, even when time’s tight. I’m excited to share it with you because it’s more than just a side dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that steals the spotlight every time. Ready to make a bowl of pure deliciousness? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Serves 6-8

• Pasta: 12 oz (340g) rotini or farfalle (bow-tie pasta works great)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup black olives, sliced
• Cheese: 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (or mozzarella balls)
• Fresh herbs: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prep the veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Toss them into a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine everything: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the veggies. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to coat. Add feta cheese and parsley, giving it one final mix.
5. Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Pasta Recipe

Pro Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in salads and avoids mushiness.
• Rinse pasta well: Cold water stops the cooking and removes excess starch for a cleaner taste.
• Make it ahead: Pasta salad tastes better after a few hours in the fridge, so prep it in the morning for evening events.
• Taste and adjust: Before serving, give it a quick taste and add a splash of vinegar or salt if needed.

Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
• Mediterranean twist: Swap feta for goat cheese and add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Creamy version: Mix in 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt or mayo to the dressing for a creamier texture.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly option.

Storage Suggestions

• Store pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle. Add a drizzle of olive oil if it seems dry.
• Freezing isn’t recommended, as the veggies and pasta can become soggy.

How to Serve

Pasta salad shines as a side for grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue. It’s also a fantastic light lunch or vegetarian main when paired with crusty bread. Serve it in a large bowl for potlucks or portion into mason jars for cute, portable meals.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make pasta salad the night before?
Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight. Just store it in the fridge and give it a quick toss before serving.

What pasta shapes work best?
Short shapes like rotini, farfalle, or penne are ideal because they hold dressing and mix well with veggies.

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely. Italian or vinaigrette-style dressings work well, but homemade is fresher and customizable.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
Rinse the pasta with cold water after draining and toss with a little olive oil before mixing.

Is pasta salad kid-friendly?
Kids love the colorful veggies and mild flavors. Try using smaller pasta shapes and mild cheese like cheddar for picky eaters.

Conclusion

This pasta salad is your ticket to a stress-free, delicious dish that fits any occasion. It’s fresh, customizable, and packs a flavor punch that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re tossing it together for a quick weeknight meal or a big summer bash, it’s sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy every bite of this classic crowd-pleaser!