Pasta salads can be a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making them a perfect choice for any meal. These easy recipes showcase a variety of cooking techniques, from simple boiling to vibrant tossing with fresh ingredients. You’ll find clever dressings and ingredient pairings that elevate each dish without the fuss. Get ready to whip up pasta salads that are not just quick to make, but also bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta And Olives
This Mediterranean pasta salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, it’s a dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. It’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a side at your next gathering.
The combination of ingredients creates a refreshing and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. Enjoy this vibrant salad chilled for a truly refreshing experience!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad With Salami And Provolone
This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors that will brighten up any meal. With the savory taste of salami, creamy provolone, and fresh veggies, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s super easy to whip up. Perfect for picnics or potlucks, this dish is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days.
The combination of tangy dressing and fresh ingredients creates a refreshing dish that’s satisfying yet light. You can enjoy it as a side or a main dish, and it’s even better when made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta
- 6 ounces salami, sliced
- 6 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, salami, provolone, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and basil.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad With Chicken And Veggies
This creamy ranch pasta salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a rich ranch dressing, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or potlucks.
The combination of pasta and ranch dressing creates a comforting yet refreshing taste. The crunch from the veggies adds a nice contrast, making every bite enjoyable. You can even customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and green onions.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Classic Caesar Pasta Salad With Romaine And Parmesan
This Classic Caesar Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional Caesar salad. Combining tender pasta with crisp romaine lettuce and rich Parmesan cheese, it offers a creamy, tangy flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a side dish at your next gathering.
With the crunch of croutons and the freshness of romaine, this salad is not only tasty but also visually appealing. Plus, it takes just a few minutes to prepare, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup croutons
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat.
- Add Croutons: Fold in the croutons and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for a refreshing dish.
Sweet And Savory Caprese Pasta Salad With Balsamic Glaze
This Sweet and Savory Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s a simple dish that bursts with taste. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet tang that ties everything together beautifully.
Making this pasta salad is a breeze! Just cook the pasta, toss in the fresh ingredients, and drizzle with the glaze. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Hearty Southwest Pasta Salad With Black Beans And Corn
This Hearty Southwest Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. With black beans, corn, and fresh veggies, it’s both satisfying and refreshing. Perfect for picnics or quick weeknight dinners, this salad is simple to whip up and packed with nutrition.
The combination of ingredients gives it a zesty kick that pairs well with the creamy avocado on top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated. Top with sliced avocado before serving.
Vegan Pasta Salad With Avocado And Cherry Tomatoes
This vegan pasta salad is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With creamy avocado and juicy cherry tomatoes, it brings a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or potlucks.
The combination of ingredients creates a light and satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh produce!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat rotini pasta
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups arugula
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Tangy Greek Pasta Salad With Artichokes And Spinach
This Tangy Greek Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will brighten up any meal. With the freshness of spinach, the brininess of olives, and the zing of feta cheese, it’s a taste sensation that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The combination of artichokes and spinach adds a lovely depth to the dish, while the dressing ties everything together with a tangy kick. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as a light main course, this pasta salad is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, spinach, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and red onion.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Savory Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad With Peas
This Savory Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The creamy ranch dressing pairs perfectly with crispy bacon and sweet peas, making every bite a treat. It’s simple to whip up, perfect for potlucks or a quick weeknight dinner.
With minimal prep and cooking time, this dish is not only tasty but also a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how the flavors come together, creating a satisfying salad that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, peas, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Toss everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious pasta salad!
Light And Bright Lemon Herb Pasta Salad With Asparagus
This Lemon Herb Pasta Salad with Asparagus is a refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. It’s light, bright, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic or a family dinner. The combination of zesty lemon and fresh herbs makes every bite delightful.
Making this salad is a breeze! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a tasty and healthy meal in no time. The asparagus adds a nice crunch, while the pasta provides a satisfying base. Enjoy this dish chilled or at room temperature for a versatile option!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Blanch the Asparagus: In the same pot, add the asparagus pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, asparagus, and dressing. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your light and refreshing pasta salad!
Comforting Pesto Pasta Salad With Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of flavors that brings comfort to any meal. The creamy pesto pairs perfectly with the tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a bowl of this tasty pasta salad in no time. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish at your next barbecue. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 oz farfalle pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and baby spinach. Toss gently to combine.
- Add Nuts: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to mix everything evenly.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Crunchy Asian Pasta Salad With Sesame Dressing
This Crunchy Asian Pasta Salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. With fresh veggies and a tangy sesame dressing, it’s a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or casual gatherings.
The combination of crunchy vegetables and nutty sesame adds a unique twist to traditional pasta salads. You’ll love how the flavors come together in a light and satisfying way!
Ingredients
- 8 oz soba noodles
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooked noodles with shredded cabbage, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving. Enjoy your crunchy salad chilled or at room temperature!
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.