Awesome Pasta Salad Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic You’ll Make Again and Again
Pasta salad has a special way of bringing people together, whether it’s at backyard barbecues, potlucks, picnics, or simple family dinners. An awesome pasta salad recipe goes beyond just tossing noodles with dressing—it delivers bold flavors, colorful vegetables, and a satisfying balance of textures in every bite. Fresh, vibrant, and endlessly versatile, this dish feels just as comforting as it does refreshing.
What makes a pasta salad truly memorable is its ability to adapt. It can be light and veggie-forward, hearty and protein-packed, or creamy and indulgent depending on your mood. Served chilled or slightly warm, pasta salad fits effortlessly into any season. This recipe focuses on simple ingredients, bold seasoning, and a homemade dressing that ties everything together beautifully, making it a reliable favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Rotini or penne pasta | 3 cups cooked | 600 |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup | 30 |
| Cucumber, diced | 1 cup | 16 |
| Red bell pepper, chopped | 1 cup | 40 |
| Black olives, sliced | ½ cup | 50 |
| Red onion, finely chopped | ¼ cup | 15 |
| Mozzarella cheese cubes | 1 cup | 280 |
| Fresh parsley or basil | ¼ cup | 5 |
| Olive oil | ¼ cup | 480 |
| Red wine vinegar | 2 tbsp | 6 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove | 5 |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | 5 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water to stop cooking. - Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, and red onion. - Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined. - Assemble the Salad
Add cooked pasta to a large bowl. Toss in chopped vegetables, mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs. - Mix and Chill
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, salami, or chickpeas make it more filling.
- Go Creamy: Mix a little mayonnaise or Greek yogurt into the dressing for a creamier version.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
- Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes, roasted vegetables, or a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta without changing the rest of the recipe.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380–450 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Enjoy as a light main dish with added protein.
- Pair with garlic bread or soup for a complete meal.
- Ideal for meal prep—store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Awesome Pasta Salad Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic You’ll Make Again and Again
4–6
servings15
minutes10
minutes380-450
kcalIngredients
Ingredient Quantity Calories (Approx.)
Rotini or penne pasta 3 cups cooked 600
Cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup 30
Cucumber, diced 1 cup 16
Red bell pepper, chopped 1 cup 40
Black olives, sliced ½ cup 50
Red onion, finely chopped ¼ cup 15
Mozzarella cheese cubes 1 cup 280
Fresh parsley or basil ¼ cup 5
Olive oil ¼ cup 480
Red wine vinegar 2 tbsp 6
Dijon mustard 1 tsp 5
Garlic, minced 1 clove 5
Salt & black pepper To taste 0
Italian seasoning 1 tsp 5
Directions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with cold water to stop cooking.
- Prepare Vegetables
- Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, olives, and red onion. Set aside.
- Make the Dressing
- Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, mozzarella cubes, and fresh herbs.
- Toss and Chill
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, salami, or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based mozzarella or skip the cheese entirely.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; add delicate ingredients like fresh herbs or cheese just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad tastes even better after chilling for 30–60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Rotini, penne, fusilli, or farfalle all work well. For a healthier option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
3. How can I make this pasta salad vegan?
Simply replace the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based cheese or skip it entirely. The dressing and vegetables are naturally vegan-friendly.
4. Can I add protein to make it a meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, salami, or chickpeas are excellent options to turn this salad into a complete, satisfying meal.
5. How should I store leftover pasta salad?
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add any delicate ingredients like fresh herbs or avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
An awesome pasta salad recipe earns its place as a kitchen staple thanks to its simplicity, flavor, and flexibility. With tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing, this dish delivers comfort and freshness in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or everyday meals, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for whenever you need something reliable, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.
