🥗 Why You’ll Love This Easy Pasta Salad Recipe
Whether you need a quick lunch, a BBQ side, or a fridge-friendly meal prep option, this Easy Pasta Salad checks all the boxes. It’s colorful, customizable, and tossed in a tangy, herb-packed dressing that brings it all together.
Primary keywords: easy pasta salad, cold pasta salad recipe
Secondary keywords: summer pasta salad, pasta salad with dressing, quick pasta salad
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Base
- 12 oz rotini, fusilli, or bowtie pasta (cooked & cooled)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
Homemade Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
👩🍳 How to Make Easy Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook & Cool the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it quickly.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
While pasta cools, chop all your fresh veggies and herbs.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and seasonings in a small bowl or shake in a mason jar until emulsified.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Combine cooled pasta, veggies, olives, feta, and herbs in a large bowl. Pour dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Stir again before serving.
🌀 Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Cheese swap: Try mozzarella pearls, goat cheese, or cheddar cubes.
- Dressing ideas: Use pesto, Italian dressing, or Greek yogurt ranch.
- Veggie upgrades: Add roasted red peppers, artichokes, or spinach.
📦 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Make ahead: Perfect for meal prep — just save a little extra dressing to freshen it up before serving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make pasta salad the day before?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld.
Should pasta salad be served cold or warm?
Cold or room temp is best for pasta salad.
What’s the best pasta shape for pasta salad?
Short shapes like rotini, fusilli, or bowties hold dressing and veggies perfectly.
🔥 Perfect For:
- Summer BBQs & cookouts
- Meal prepping for lunch
- Potlucks, picnics, and road trips
- A light and fresh weeknight dinner side
🧡 Final Thoughts
This Easy Pasta Salad is your no-fuss, go-to recipe that works for any occasion. Simple ingredients, fresh flavors, and endless customization make it a crowd favorite—every single time.
