The Best Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta salad is a versatile, delicious dish that shines at potlucks, picnics, and family dinners. This version is packed with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty homemade dressing that brings everything together. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main dish, this best pasta salad recipe will impress every guest at the table.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne work best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (use a mix of colors for vibrancy)
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella
• ½ cup salami or pepperoni, diced (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Add-Ins

1. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and olives.
2. If using, dice the salami or pepperoni and cut the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables, mozzarella, and salami (if using).
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or fish for a complete meal.
• Add a loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread for an extra hearty pairing.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, but freshen it up with a drizzle of olive oil if needed.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing pasta salad is not recommended as the vegetables and dressing may lose their texture and flavor.

Helpful Notes

1. Pasta Choice: Rotini, bowtie, or penne are ideal because their shapes hold the dressing well. Avoid thin pastas like spaghetti.
2. Make it Vegetarian: Skip the salami or pepperoni for a vegetarian-friendly version.
3. Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
4. Customizable Add-Ins: Try artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavors.
5. Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust the dressing—add a pinch of sugar or more vinegar to suit your preferences.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Ina Garten: Use high-quality olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan for an extra touch of elegance.
• Giada De Laurentiis: Toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil before adding the dressing to prevent sticking.
• Bobby Flay: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, pasta salad tastes even better after chilling, so feel free to prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.

2. What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?

White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice work well as substitutes.

3. Can I use a store-bought dressing?

Absolutely! Italian dressing is a popular choice if you’re short on time.

4. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and toss it with a bit of olive oil before adding it to the salad.

5. What’s the best way to cut down on prep time?

Use pre-chopped vegetables or mozzarella pearls to save time.

6. Can I make this pasta salad gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

7. How do I make this salad more filling?

Add cooked protein like chicken, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier dish.

8. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

Substitute with yellow mustard or omit it entirely for a simpler dressing.

9. Can I add cheese besides mozzarella?

Yes, feta or Parmesan are excellent alternatives.

10. How do I keep the vegetables from getting soggy?

Cut the vegetables into even sizes and add them just before serving if making the salad far in advance.