Easy Classic Pasta Salad (Perfect for Any Occasion)

Pasta salad is a colorful, refreshing, and endlessly customizable dish that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, or healthy lunch meal prep. This version combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing that ties it all together.

Whether you serve it chilled or room temperature, this recipe is a go-to side dish (or even a light main!) for warm-weather gatherings and make-ahead meals. It’s healthy, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 10 mins

Total Time 25 mins

Cooking Method: Boiling, No-Cook

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean-inspired

Courses: Main course, Salad, Side dish

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 6

Estimated Cost: 6

Calories: 280 kcal

Best Season: Summer, Spring

Description

This easy pasta salad is loaded with fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and tossed in a flavorful vinaigrette. A crowd-pleasing side or main dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

3 cups cooked pasta (e.g. rotini, fusilli, or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1
1. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
2
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3
3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and parsley.
4
4. Add Dressing & Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5
5. Optional Chill: Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Top with feta cheese before serving if using.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 280kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 8mg3%
Sodium 220mg10%
Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 3g
Protein 7g15%

Calcium 60 mg
Iron 2 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

📦 Storage Notes:

Store pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, and add a splash of olive oil or vinegar if it dries out.

📝 Notes:

Add protein: Mix in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna for a hearty main dish.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Flavor tip: Add a splash of lemon juice or chopped basil for a refreshing twist.

Keywords: pasta salad, picnic pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, cold pasta salad, side dish recipes