Classic Pasta Salad Recipes Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Discover classic pasta salad recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try this flavorful recipe today and enjoy a fresh, tasty meal.

Classic Pasta Salad Recipes

Pasta salad recipes are a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any meal plan. This classic pasta salad recipe combines fresh vegetables, cheese, and a tangy dressing to create a simple yet flavorful dish. It’s perfect for breakfast buffets, potlucks, or light lunches and pairs well with many other easy dishes. Whether you’re new to making pasta salads or looking for a reliable go-to recipe, this one hits the mark every time.

Using rotini pasta allows for great sauce coverage and a satisfying bite. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences, making it a flexible option for your kitchen. Before we dive further, check out other quick meal ideas like Easy Weeknight Dinners and Healthy Salad Recipes.

Why You’ll Love It

This pasta salad recipe is loved for its simplicity and fresh flavors. It’s quick to prepare, uses readily available ingredients, and can be made ahead of time, which makes it ideal for busy schedules. The balance of crunchy veggies, creamy mozzarella, and zesty Italian dressing ensures every bite is enjoyable. Plus, pasta salad is incredibly adaptable, so you can easily adjust it for your taste or occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini pasta (substitute penne or fusilli)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use grape tomatoes if preferred)
• 1 cup cucumber, diced (English or regular cucumber both work)
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (yellow onion or green onions as milder options)
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (green olives can be used for variation)
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed (feta cheese for tangier flavor)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or substitute fresh basil)
• 1/3 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade vinaigrette)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, sliced olives, and cubed mozzarella cheese.
4. Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture, then add chopped fresh parsley. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld before serving.

Expert Tips

For best results, don’t overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm to hold up well in the salad. Rinsing the pasta after cooking cools it quickly and prevents sticking. Feel free to swap Italian dressing for a creamy option like ranch or a homemade vinaigrette for unique flavors. If you prefer a vegan version, omit the cheese or use plant-based cheese alternatives.

Storage

This pasta salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, stir it gently as the dressing might settle. Avoid freezing pasta salad as the texture of the vegetables and pasta can degrade upon thawing.

Variations

• Vegan: Use a dairy-free cheese or omit cheese entirely. Swap Italian dressing with a vegan vinaigrette.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free rotini or your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the mozzarella or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Added Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a more filling meal.

FAQ

• What are the best pasta salad recipes for beginners? This classic pasta salad recipe is beginner-friendly and easy to customize.
• Can pasta salad be made in advance? Yes, making it a few hours to a day ahead enhances the flavors.
• How do I prevent pasta salad from becoming soggy? Rinse pasta well and drain excess dressing before serving.
• Can I freeze pasta salad? Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• What ingredients can I add to pasta salad for extra flavor? Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or fresh herbs like basil.

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