This Perfect Pasta Salad is vibrant, refreshing, and easy to make, loaded with fresh veggies, savory cheese, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a simple weeknight dinner.
You can customize it with your favorite veggies, proteins, or even a twist in flavors to match any taste preference.
Customizable Pasta Salad
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Colander
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
- 1 Whisk or small fork (for dressing)
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Knife
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups Rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) diced
- ½ cup red onion finely chopped
- ½ cup black olives sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley chopped
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers. Finely chop the red onion.Slice the black olives and crumble the feta cheese if it isn’t already prepared.Chop the fresh basil or parsley.
- Make the Dressing:In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.Whisk or shake until all ingredients are well-blended.
- Assemble the Salad:In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs.Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve:Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.Serve chilled, garnished with extra herbs or a sprinkle of feta, if desired.
Video
Notes
- Pasta Options: Choose any short pasta you like, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle, to switch things up.
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp can be added for a heartier version.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or pine nuts for added texture.
- Dressing Variations: Substitute balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile. A touch of honey can add sweetness if preferred.
Variations to Try
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Embrace the flavors of the Mediterranean with this version that’s bright, salty, and full of sun-kissed ingredients. The combination of olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese gives it a distinctly Greek flair.
Key Ingredients:
- Kalamata Olives: These dark, briny olives add a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with creamy feta.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Rich and slightly chewy, sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated sweetness. For an extra burst of flavor, use ones packed in oil and drizzle a little of that oil over the salad.
- Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese over the salad for a salty, creamy element that binds the flavors together.
- Fresh Oregano: Adds a hint of herbaceous freshness that brings out the Mediterranean vibe.
*This Mediterranean pasta salad is perfect for warm weather and pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
Mexican-Inspired Pasta Salad
Loaded with colorful veggies and seasoned with a bit of heat, this salad is vibrant, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. Key Ingredients:
- Black Beans: Black beans add a filling, protein-packed element to the salad, along with their earthy flavor.
- Corn: Use fresh, frozen, or even grilled corn to bring a sweet pop of flavor. Grilled corn adds a smoky edge that’s especially delicious.
- Diced Avocado: Creamy avocado chunks make the salad richer and balance out the spices. Be sure to add them right before serving to keep them fresh.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded or cubed cheddar adds a touch of sharpness and richness.
*This version pairs well with grilled meats, tortilla chips on the side, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing finish.
Pesto Pasta Salad
Key Ingredients:
- Pesto: Instead of the usual vinaigrette, mix your pasta with fresh basil pesto. You can make your own or use a good-quality store-bought version.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy, sweet flavor balances the pesto’s savory notes, and their bright red color makes for a stunning contrast.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Mozzarella pearls are easy to incorporate and provide a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with pesto’s garlic and basil flavors.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Scatter toasted pine nuts over the top for a crunch and a touch of nuttiness.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. The salad might get more flavorful over time as the ingredients soak in the dressing, but some components, like fresh herbs or delicate veggies, may soften slightly.
How to Refresh the Salad
If you plan to eat the salad over several days, consider keeping certain ingredients, like tomatoes or avocados, separate and adding them in fresh each day.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 320 |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Why Pasta Salad is the Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Pasta salad checks all the boxes—it’s quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing. Plus, it can be adapted to suit just about any dietary need or flavor preference.
