Pasta salads are a versatile addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures that appeal to a wide range of tastes.
These healthy pasta salad are perfect whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying meal, pasta salads are a go-to option.
They are incredibly easy to make, often requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. These cold dishes can be prepared ahead of time, making them ideal for busy schedules and last-minute gatherings.
One of the greatest advantages of pasta salads is their adaptability.
They can be served as a refreshing appetizer, a hearty side dish, or even as a main course, depending on the ingredients used.
From tangy vinaigrettes to creamy dressings,ranch and from fresh vegetables to savory meats and cheeses, the possibilities are endless.
In this collection of 15 pasta salad recipes, you’ll find a variety of flavors and combinations that are sure to impress your guests.
Each recipe is designed to be both delicious and easy to prepare, perfect for those times when you need to whip up something tasty in a hurry.
Whether you’re craving the robust flavors of a Mediterranean pasta salad, the spicy kick of a Southwest-inspired dish, or the classic comfort of a traditional Italian pasta salad, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.
1. Greek Pasta Salad
This colorful pasta salad is loaded with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, tossed in a zesty Greek dressing.
Cook 1 lb of pasta according to package instructions, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and chopped herbs.
Prepare the Greek dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Pita bread and hummus.
Total Calories: 350 per serving
2. Italian Pasta Salad
A classic Italian-inspired salad with rotini pasta, salami, mozzarella, pepperoncini, olives, and a homemade Italian dressing.
Cook 1 lb of rotini pasta, drain, and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced salami, mozzarella balls, pepperoncini, olives, and chopped parsley.
Prepare the Italian dressing by blending together olive oil, vinegar, water, garlic, salt, sugar, oregano, and basil.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Garlic bread and a side salad.
Total Calories: 400 per serving
3. Caprese Pasta Salad
This fresh and flavorful salad features penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
Cook 1 lb of penne pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
Prepare the balsamic vinaigrette by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Garlic bread and a side of grilled chicken.
Total Calories: 375 per serving
4. BLT Pasta Salad
A twist on the classic BLT sandwich, this salad features pasta, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce in a creamy dressing.
Cook 1 lb of pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped romaine lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Prepare the dressing by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Crusty bread and a side of grilled chicken.
Total Calories: 425 per serving
5. Tuna Pasta Salad
This protein-packed salad features pasta, canned tuna, peas, celery, and a creamy dressing.
Cook 1 lb of pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, drained and flaked tuna, frozen peas, diced celery, and chopped red onion.
Prepare the dressing by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Whole grain crackers and a side of fresh fruit.
Total Calories: 375 per serving
6. Pesto Pasta Salad
A vibrant salad with pesto-coated pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and toasted pine nuts.How to Make:
Cook 1 lb of pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and toasted pine nuts.
Prepare the pesto by blending together basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto until evenly coated.
Serve with Garlic bread and a side salad.
Total Calories: 400 per serving
7. Creamy Broccoli Pasta Salad
This hearty salad combines pasta, broccoli, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a tangy dressing.How to Make:
Cook 1 lb of pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli florets, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped red onion.
Prepare the dressing by mixing mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Whole grain rolls and a side of fresh fruit.
Total Calories: 425 per serving
8. Southwestern Pasta Salad
A zesty salad with pasta, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a creamy cilantro-lime dressing.
Cook 1 lb of pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, drained and rinsed black beans, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, and chopped cilantro.
Prepare the dressing by blending mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with Tortilla chips and guacamole.
Total Calories: 375 per serving
9. Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This fresh and flavorful salad features pasta, olives, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a tangy Mediterranean dressing.
This pasta salad is perfect for bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. This vibrant dish is ideal for summer picnics, and potlucks, or as a light and healthy lunch or dinner option.
Packed with fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and tangy feta cheese, it’s both satisfying and refreshing. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement grilled meats and seafood.
This versatile salad is a crowd-pleaser that offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it a staple for any occasion.
Serve with pita bread and hummus.
Total Calories: 400 per serving
10. Ranch Pasta Salad
A creamy and flavorful salad with pasta, bacon, cheddar cheese, and a homemade ranch dressing.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped chives.
Prepare the ranch dressing by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with crusty bread and a side of grilled chicken.
Total Calories: 425 per serving
11. Thai Peanut Pasta Salad
A unique and flavorful salad with pasta, shredded chicken, carrots, cabbage, and a creamy peanut dressing.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, shredded carrots, shredded cabbage, and chopped cilantro.
Prepare the peanut dressing by blending together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and water.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with toasted peanuts and a side of fresh fruit.
Total Calories: 400 per serving
12. Tortellini Pasta Salad
A fun and flavorful salad with cheese-filled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and a zesty Italian dressing.
Cook 1 lb of cheese tortellini according to package instructions, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced olives, and chopped basil.
Prepare the Italian dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad.
Total Calories: 375 per serving
13. Lemon Asparagus Pasta Salad
Lemon Asparagus Pasta Salad is a bright and refreshing dish perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
This salad combines tender asparagus, al dente pasta, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a burst of flavor in every bite.
It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal side dish or a light main course.
With around 250 calories per serving, it’s a healthy and delicious option for any occasion.
14. Antipasto Pasta Salad
A classic Italian-style salad with pasta, salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, olives, and a tangy Italian dressing.
Cook 1 lb of pasta, drain and rinse with cool water.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced salami, sliced pepperoni, mozzarella balls, halved olives, and chopped pepperoncini.
Prepare the Italian dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Serve with crusty bread and a side of grilled vegetables.
Total Calories: 425 per serving
15. BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of smoky, tangy flavors perfect for summer cookouts and potlucks.
This hearty salad combines tender chicken breast, cooked pasta, crisp veggies, and a flavorful BBQ sauce dressing.
It’s both filling and refreshing, making it a great side dish or a stand-alone meal.
With around 350 calories per serving, it balances taste and nutrition, ensuring everyone at the gathering enjoys a delicious and satisfying dish.
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