Easy Pasta Salad

Easy Pasta Salad is a quick, colorful, and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy days, casual gatherings, or meal prep. With tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a simple yet flavorful dressing, this recipe comes together effortlessly and can be customized to suit any taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is incredibly simple, versatile, and requires minimal ingredients. It’s light, refreshing, and can be thrown together in just minutes. Perfect as a side for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light main dish, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Short pasta (such as rotini, penne, or bowtie)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, diced
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Bell pepper, diced
• Black olives, sliced
• Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and olives.
3. Pour the Italian dressing over the ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving, or cover and refrigerate until ready to eat.

Servings and timing

This Easy Pasta Salad serves about 6-8 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add diced cooked chicken, ham, or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Swap Italian dressing for ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or a lemon vinaigrette.
• Use different vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or broccoli.
• Mix in shredded cheese or feta for a creamier, tangy flavor.
• Add chickpeas or white beans for extra fiber and heartiness.

Storage/reheating

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This salad is best served cold. If the salad dries out after refrigeration, simply add a splash of extra dressing and toss before serving. No reheating is needed.

FAQs

Can I make easy pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, making it a few hours or even a day ahead enhances the flavors.

What is the best pasta for pasta salad?

Short pasta like rotini, bowtie, or penne works best because it holds the dressing well.

Can I use bottled dressing?

Yes, a good quality bottled Italian dressing works perfectly for this recipe.

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the pasta under cold water and toss with a little dressing immediately after cooking.

Can I make this pasta salad vegan?

Absolutely, just ensure the dressing is plant-based.

What veggies can I add?

You can add carrots, zucchini, broccoli, peas, or any of your favorite raw vegetables.

How do I keep pasta salad from drying out?

Add a little more dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Can I freeze pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pasta and vegetables can become mushy.

How long can pasta salad sit out?

It can sit out for about 2 hours; after that, it should be refrigerated.

Can I use whole wheat pasta?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds a bit more fiber and nutrition.

Conclusion

Easy Pasta Salad is a simple, delicious, and endlessly adaptable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a quick lunch, this vibrant salad comes together quickly and delivers fresh, satisfying flavors every time.

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