Pasta salads are a staple of summer gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. But let’s be real – not all pasta salads are created equal. The key to making a truly memorable pasta salad is using high-quality ingredients, like fresh veggies and homemade dressings. And that’s exactly what we’re going to do with these 20 flavorful pasta salad recipes featuring homemade Italian dressing.
From classic combinations to innovative twists, our collection of pasta salads has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing side dish or a hearty main course, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? You can customize them to your taste by using different vegetables, meats, and cheeses.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Italy with our 20 pasta salad recipes. From classic Italian dishes like Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze to international inspirations like Greek-Inspired Pasta Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives, there’s something for everyone. So grab your fork and get ready to dig in!
Classic Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoni and Mozzarella
This hearty pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with a medley of colorful vegetables, savory pepperoni, and creamy mozzarella. A perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 6 oz. pepperoni, sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and pepperoni.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with red wine vinegar and olive oil.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and toss gently.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Basil and Balsamic Glaze
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy – fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil – with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Inspired Pasta Salad with Feta and Kalamata Olives
This refreshing pasta salad combines the classic flavors of Greece with the convenience of a quick and easy meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, red onion, and cucumber.
3. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Antipasto Pasta Salad with Salami and Roasted Red Peppers
A flavorful and colorful salad that combines the rich flavors of salami, roasted red peppers, and pasta, perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup salami, sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, roasted and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, salami, roasted red peppers, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Artichokes and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This flavorful pasta salad combines the classic Mediterranean trio of artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese with a hint of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garden Veggie Pasta Salad with Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing summer pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, packed with the flavors of garden-fresh zucchini and cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad with Black Olives and Parmesan
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the goodness of cheese-filled tortellini, black olives, and crispy parmesan for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Italian Pasta Salad with Hot Soppressata and Banana Peppers
This flavorful pasta salad combines the spicy kick of hot soppressata, the sweetness of banana peppers, and the tanginess of Italian dressing for a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup hot soppressata, sliced
– 1 large banana pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced soppressata, banana peppers, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Pour in the Italian dressing and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Pine Nuts
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a hint of crunch, featuring grilled chicken, pesto-infused pasta, and toasted pine nuts. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, pesto sauce, pine nuts, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic Pasta Salad with Arugula and Shaved Pecorino
Roasted Garlic Pasta Salad with Arugula and Shaved Pecorino: A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the richness of roasted garlic, the peppery bite of arugula, and the tanginess of shaved pecorino.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 3-4 heads of garlic
– 2 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup shaved Pecorino cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic heads in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and mashed.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, roasted garlic, and pasta.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle shaved Pecorino cheese on top.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional arugula if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bruschetta Pasta Salad with Fresh Tomatoes and Garlic Bread Croutons
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of garlic bread, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With its colorful mix of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese, this recipe is sure to become a summer favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bowtie pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of garlic bread (homemade or store-bought)
– Crouton crumbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, basil, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated.
5. Tear garlic bread into crouton-sized pieces and add to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with Blue Cheese and Celery
This spicy and savory pasta salad combines the flavors of buffalo chicken, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy celery for a delicious and refreshing meal or snack. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tbsp. mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and mayonnaise until smooth. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. In a separate bowl, combine blue cheese, celery, and parsley. Stir in cooked pasta and chicken mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwestern Pasta Salad with Corn, Black Beans, and Avocado
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this refreshing Southwestern pasta salad. A perfect blend of tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, corn kernels, black beans, and diced avocado.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Bacon Pasta Salad with Creamy Italian Dressing
This classic pasta salad gets a boost of flavor from crispy bacon, wilted spinach, and a tangy creamy dressing. Perfect for potlucks or quick lunches.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup creamy Italian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the crumbled bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Add the cooked spinach to the skillet with the bacon and cook until wilted.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, cooled bacon and spinach mixture, cherry tomatoes, and creamy Italian dressing in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon-Herb Pasta Salad with Asparagus and Grilled Shrimp
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing pasta salad, packed with the sweetness of asparagus, the tanginess of lemon, and the savory flavor of grilled shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add asparagus to the bowl and toss to combine.
5. Add grilled shrimp and cooked pasta to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chickpea and Orzo Pasta Salad with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the nutty flavor of orzo, all tied together with a bright and zesty herb mixture. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked orzo
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
2. Stir in parsley, dill, and lemon juice.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled, so simply prepare and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, goat cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar (if using); serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cucumber and Radish Pasta Salad with Dill and Lemon Zest
This light and zesty pasta salad is perfect for a warm weather gathering or a quick lunch. The combination of crunchy radishes, cool cucumbers, and tangy lemon zest will have you hooked.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1 bunch of radishes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, radishes, and chopped fresh dill.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Pasta Salad with a Tangy Italian Twist
This refreshing pasta salad combines the crunch of broccoli with the creaminess of cheddar, all wrapped up in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to coat.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pear and Gorgonzola Pasta Salad with Toasted Walnuts
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the tanginess of gorgonzola cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy walnut package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced pears, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, chopped parsley, and toasted walnuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour dressing over the pear mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on pasta cooking time)
Summary
Get ready to take your pasta salads to the next level with these 20 flavorful recipes featuring homemade Italian dressing! From classic combinations like pepperoni and mozzarella to Mediterranean-inspired creations, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique twists on antipasto, bruschetta, and buffalo chicken pasta salads, or try new flavors like roasted garlic, lemon-herb, or goat cheese. With a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, these recipes are perfect for any meal or gathering. So go ahead, get creative, and buon appetito!
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