Do you know what makes summer gatherings so much better? Quick, refreshing dishes that are easy to make and enjoyable to eat. These five pasta salad recipes check all the boxes! If you’re looking to bring something special to your next summer hangout, we’ve got you covered with five pasta salad recipes. Let’s get cooking and make this summer even more delicious!
The Best Pasta Salad Recipes for Your Summer Spread
These pasta salads are exactly what you need for those laid-back sunny days. Grab your apron, because here come the recipes:
1. Classic Italian Pasta Salad
Classic Italian pasta salad’s a crowd-pleaser. It combines fresh veggies and creamy mozzarella with the zesty kick of Italian dressing. It’s an easy, no-fuss Italian salad dish that tastes great and looks even better on the table.
Ingredients:
1 pound pasta, 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cucumber (diced), 1 small red onion (sliced), 1/2 cup pepperoni (sliced), 8 oz mozzarella (cubed), 1/4 cup Italian dressing, Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to make it:
Boil the pasta, then mix it with chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, pepperoni, and mozzarella. Drizzle with Italian dressing, mix well, and chill before serving.
2. Avocado Pasta Salad
If you love smooth, creamy textures with a little zing, this avocado pasta salad is for you. The soft avocado complements the zesty lime and tangy cilantro. This creamy avocado salad gives you that bright, fresh flavor that feels just right on a warm day.
Ingredients:
1 pound pasta, 2 ripe avocados (mashed), 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 cup corn, 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped), Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to make it:
Mash avocado with lime juice and Greek yogurt, then combine with cooked penne, corn, red bell pepper, and cilantro. Chill before serving.
3. Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This Mediterranean pasta salad comes together quickly and is perfect alongside grilled chicken or fish. With its mix of olives, feta, and cucumber, this salad will always be a hit.
Ingredients:
1 pound pasta, 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cucumber (diced), 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (sliced), 1/2 small red onion (sliced), 1 cup feta (crumbled), 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon oregano, Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to make it:
Toss cooked fusilli with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice and sprinkle with oregano. Chill to let the flavors meld.
4. Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This pesto pasta salad is the perfect way to use up those fresh summer veggies. Roasting the zucchini, bell pepper, and tomatoes bring out their natural sweetness. Meanwhile, the pesto infuses an herby taste that ties all the flavors together.
Ingredients:
1 pound pasta, 1 zucchini (sliced), 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/4 cup pesto, 1/4 cup Parmesan (grated), 2 tablespoons pine nuts (optional), Olive oil, Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to make it:
Roast veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Afterward, combine with cooked penne and pesto sauce. Top with Parmesan and pine nuts, then chill.
5. Southwest Pasta Salad
This Southwest pasta salad combines the best summer ingredients like black beans, corn, and lime. This salad makes a satisfying side dish for your next cookout.
Ingredients:
1 pound pasta, 1 can black beans (drained), 1 cup corn, 1/2 red onion (chopped), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped), 2 tablespoons lime juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to make it:
Cook bowtie pasta and cool. Then, toss with black beans, corn, red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil, then sprinkle with chili powder. Chill before serving.
Mix, Toss, Enjoy
These pasta salads make summer gatherings extra vibrant! Which one will you try first? Share in the comments!
FAQs: Pasta Salad Recipes
- Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, pasta salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. It allows the flavors to meld together! - What kind of pasta is best for pasta salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli work great for pasta salad as they hold the dressing well. - Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap Italian dressing for ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or any dressing you prefer. - Can I add protein to the pasta salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even cubed cheese are perfect additions for extra protein. - How long will pasta salad last in the fridge?
Pasta salad typically lasts for about 3-4 days in the fridge, as long as it’s stored in an airtight container. - Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Definitely! Gluten-free pasta works just as well in any of these pasta salad recipes. - Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayo in the dressing?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayo, offering a creamy texture with less fat. - Do I need to cook the pasta before making the salad?
Yes, cook the pasta according to package instructions, then let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients. - Can I add fruit to my pasta salad?
Yes! Fruit like berries, grapes, or even apples can add a sweet twist to your pasta salad. - How can I make pasta salad spicier?
Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a spicy dressing to give your pasta salad a kick!
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