Quick and easy pasta salad is a go-to dish that delivers on flavor, convenience, and versatility. Whether you’re heading to a picnic, hosting a backyard barbecue, or just need a fast lunch option, this chilled salad comes together in no time and is always a crowd-pleaser. With a mix of colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and zesty dressing, it’s a simple dish that checks every box.
The beauty of pasta salad lies in its flexibility. You can use almost any pasta shape – rotini, penne, farfalle, or even macaroni, and it all works perfectly. Once cooked and cooled, the pasta is ready to soak up all the flavors from the dressing and mix-ins. A classic base often includes cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onions, and black olives, but you can easily tailor it to what you have on hand.
To bring it all together, a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey adds brightness and tang. For something creamier, swap in a mayo or yogurt-based dressing. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil take it up a notch, adding color and aroma with little effort.
You can also make it a more filling meal by adding proteins like grilled chicken, tuna, chickpeas, or cubes of cheese. A sprinkle of feta or shredded mozzarella adds a creamy, salty touch that pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies and tender pasta.
What makes pasta salad such a winner is that it’s just as good the next day, maybe even better. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish, travels well, and can be served cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for everything from meal prep to potlucks.
Quick and easy pasta salad proves that simple ingredients can create something delicious, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. No fuss, no stress, just fresh, flavorful goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 200 g pasta cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup red onion sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tbsp basil chopped, fresh
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped, fresh
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, basil, and parsley.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Enjoy!
This pasta salad is super delicious! I added grilled chicken to it and wow, what a hit at the BBQ!
I don’t like olives, can I use something else? Also, my pasta was too sticky…
This pasta salad is a game changer! So fresh and easy to make. I’ll definitely be making it again!
I agree! It’s so quick to whip up and perfect for summer gatherings. Love it!
I added some grilled chicken to this recipe, and it turned out great! A little more filling but still delicious.
Grilled chicken sounds like a great addition! I love when pasta salad is packed with protein.
It was alright. Could’ve used more flavor, maybe some garlic or something. Just felt a bit bland.
I thought this would be better. It’s missing something, maybe a hint of garlic or lemon??
I totally agree! A little garlic or lemon would really kick this up a notch. Thanks for the suggestion!
Huh? I thought it was fine. Maybe you just don’t like it? 🤷♂️
I’m not a cook, but this was pretty easy! Looks fancy for impressing guests. 😂
I’m too lazy to cook pasta! 😂
But this is so easy! Just boil some water and mix stuff! 😂
Yum! So easy to make! I recommend using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option!
Whole wheat pasta is a great idea! I always use it for more fiber. Thanks for sharing!
I dunno about that… whole wheat can taste kinda weird. I like regular pasta way better!
So good! Perfect for warm days. I just swapped olives for capers, and it was fine.
Capers? That’s different! I usually stick to olives, but I’m curious how it tastes. Might try it next time!
This looks neat, but I don’t do raw onions. What else can I put instead???
Not a fan, I think the dressing is too tangy for my taste. Maybe less vinegar next time?
What is this?? It’s just pasta and veggies. Not worth the time in the kitchen. 🙁