Print

Awesome Pasta Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This awesome pasta salad recipe is a refreshing and easy-to-make dish, loaded with colorful veggies, tender pasta, and a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and summer parties, this salad is packed with flavor and customizable ingredients. A great make-ahead option that gets even better the next day!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rotini pasta

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)

  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed

  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or homemade vinaigrette)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.

  • In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and cheddar cheese.

  • Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

 

  • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • You can use any pasta shape you like—penne or farfalle work great too.

  • This salad can be made a day in advance.

 

  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Nutrition