Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic basket, or meal prepping for the week, Pasta Salad Recipe is always a winning choice. It’s colorful, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. With fresh vegetables, a tangy dressing, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is as refreshing as it is hearty.
In today’s post, we’re sharing a foolproof pasta salad recipe that’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and ideal for lunch, dinner, or your next potluck.
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What is Pasta Salad?
Pasta salad is a chilled dish made with cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and a flavorful dressing. It can include cheese, herbs, meats like salami or grilled chicken, or even beans for added protein. Pasta salads are typically served cold, making them a popular summer side dish or light main course.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick & Easy: Minimal cooking involved and perfect for busy schedules.
- Colorful & Fresh: Packed with vibrant veggies for a healthy crunch.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stays delicious for several days in the fridge.
- Versatile: You can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
What to Serve with Pasta Salad
- Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp
- Burgers and hot dogs at barbecues
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- Light soups or green salads
- A refreshing iced tea, lemonade.
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Ingredients
Pasta Salad:
- 1 pound dried pasta like fusilli, penne, rotini or farfalle
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper, 1 medium
- 1 cup thinly sliced zucchini , 1/2 medium
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions, 5 to 6 green onions
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers, (optional)
- 1 cup (4 ounces) halved mixed olives
- 1 cup (2 ounces) grated parmesan cheese or other hard cheese
- 1 cup (6 ounces) fresh mozzarella balls, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley or basil, (optional)
Homemade Dressing:
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 to 3 tablespoons juice from pepperoncini jar, (optional)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
How to Make the Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
- While the pasta is cooking, chop all your veggies, herbs, and cheese. Keep them bite-sized for easy eating.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, Whisk the apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, oregano, pepperoncini juice (if using), and olive oil until blended.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, veggies, parmesan, mozzarella. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- Pour the dressing over and toss well to coat evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Nutrition per Serving
(Based on 10 servings)
- Calories: 363
- Protein: 11.7g
- Fat: 19.1g
- Saturated Fat: 5.1g
- Carbohydrates: 36.6g
- Cholesterol: 18.3mg
- Sodium: 507.1mg
- Potassium: 250mg
- Fiber: 2.3g
- Sugar: 2g
Note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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Make-Ahead and Storing Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prep this pasta salad 1–2 days in advance. It actually tastes better after it sits!
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Refresh Before Serving: Give it a quick toss and, if needed, add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon before serving to freshen it up.
Final Thoughts
- This easy pasta salad is your go-to recipe for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, and effortless entertaining. It’s colorful, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with grilled mains, this salad is guaranteed to impress.
- Don’t forget to check out our recommended kitchen tools and recipes on our website, myhomewish.com, to streamline prep and elevate your cooking game.