Get ready to elevate your lunch game with these 20 flavorful tri-colored pasta salad recipes! Tri-colored pasta salads are a staple for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a quick and easy meal prep option. The best part? These recipes offer endless variety, so you can mix and match to find your new favorite flavor combination.
From classic Italian-inspired dishes to bold and spicy southwest flavors, we’ve got you covered with our collection of tri-colored pasta salads. Each recipe is carefully crafted with a unique blend of colorful pasta, tangy dressings, and fresh ingredients to create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of tri-colored pasta salads and share 20 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing option or something more substantial, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Italian Tri-Colored Pasta Salad
A colorful and flavorful salad that combines the best of Italy’s culinary traditions. This classic tri-colored pasta salad is a staple at any gathering, with its vibrant colors and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-color pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using) on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Feta
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the simplicity of a cold-weather meal. A symphony of colors and textures, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (red, orange, yellow)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Spicy Southwest Tri-Colored Pasta Salad
A flavorful and vibrant salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Spicy Southwest Tri-Colored Pasta Salad combines the bold flavors of the American Southwest with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, yellow, and green)
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 diced jalapeños (depending on desired heat level)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add diced jalapeños and pasta; toss until well combined.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including cooking time for pasta)
Greek Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Olives
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the colors of Greece – red tomatoes, green olives, and white feta cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, olives, feta cheese, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing
Brighten up your lunch or dinner with this colorful pasta salad, featuring a zesty lemon herb dressing that complements the tri-colored pasta perfectly. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/2 cup lemon herb dressing (see below)
Lemon Herb Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, parsley, and basil.
3. Pour the lemon herb dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tri-Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for potlucks or weeknight dinners, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bow tie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced yellow summer squash
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or 1 tbsp regular balsamic vinegar + 1 tsp honey)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, yellow squash, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic glaze.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including chilling time)
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this colorful and flavorful salad featuring tri-colored pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Lime Tri-Colored Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime and the colorfulness of tri-colored pasta. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 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 avocado, lime juice, olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (cooking pasta), 0 minutes (assembly)
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of roasted vegetables with the brightness of tri-colored pasta, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With its colorful medley of ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook tri-colored pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, cooked pasta, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Pine Nuts
A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this Pesto Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Pine Nuts combines the creaminess of pesto with the crunch of toasted pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bowtie, fusilli, and penne)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts. Toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta salad game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe featuring tri-colored pasta, juicy grilled chicken, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic. 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 cherry tomatoes, parsley, feta cheese (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add grilled chicken and cooked pasta to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Creamy Ranch Dressing
A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. This tri-colored pasta salad is easy to make and packed with color and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bowtie, elbow, and penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup creamy ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
– 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, cucumber, red bell pepper, and parsley.
3. Pour creamy ranch dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella
A colorful and refreshing summer salad featuring tri-colored pasta, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and chopped basil leaves to the bowl.
4. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
Elevate your pasta salad game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe featuring tri-colored pasta, mixed vegetables, and a tangy honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– 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 cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
5. Pour the honey mustard dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Shrimp and Garlic Butter
This vibrant pasta salad combines the colors of tri-colored pasta with succulent shrimp, savory garlic butter, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Italian seasoning blend (dried oregano, basil, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Spinach and Artichokes
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect combination of colors, flavors, and textures. A medley of tri-colored pasta, fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and tangy feta cheese come together to create a delightful and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp 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, spinach leaves, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time)
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Roasted Red Pepper Dressing
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect combination of flavors and colors, featuring tri-colored pasta, roasted red peppers, and a tangy dressing. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch that can be prepared in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (such as bow-tie, penne, and fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 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, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Crispy Bacon and Parmesan
Elevate your pasta salad game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, featuring tri-colored pasta, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pasta mixture and sprinkle with garlic.
6. Top with crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Mango and Cilantro
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant and refreshing pasta salad! The combination of tri-colored pasta, sweet mango, and tangy cilantro will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mango, cilantro, olive oil, and lime juice.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Tri-Colored Pasta Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of tri-colored pasta, black beans, corn, and a hint of lime juice, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 flavorful tri-colored pasta salad recipes! From classic Italian to spicy Southwest, each recipe offers a unique twist on this popular dish. Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired flavors with feta and olives, or try something new like avocado lime or honey mustard dressing. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or rich and creamy, there’s a tri-colored pasta salad recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
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