The Best Easy Pasta Salad

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There’s something magical about a bowl of pasta salad. It’s the kind of dish that feels right at home no matter where you serve it—at a picnic in the park, a family potluck, or simply at your dinner table on a busy weeknight. This easy pasta salad is my go-to when I need something vibrant, versatile, and crowd-pleasing.

The beauty of pasta salad lies in its flexibility. You can start with the basics—pasta, veggies, cheese, and a good dressing—and then get creative with mix-ins to suit your mood or what’s in your fridge.

My version combines tender pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, spicy salami, briny olives, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors, and it’s dangerously good.

So, grab your favorite pasta and let’s create a summer favorite that you’ll come back to again and again.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This pasta salad isn’t just another side dish—it’s a game-changer. Here’s why:

1. Effortlessly Simple: From start to finish, you’ll have this dish ready in about 30 minutes.
2. Packed with Flavor: Each ingredient brings something special to the table, from the tangy dressing to the creamy mozzarella.
3. Perfectly Versatile: Swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, or customize it to fit your cravings.
4. Make-Ahead Magic: This pasta salad gets better as it sits, so it’s ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.

Key Ingredients

Every component in this pasta salad is chosen for maximum flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta Salad Essentials

• Pasta: Choose a shape that holds onto the dressing well, such as rotini, fusilli, or penne. Their ridges and curves are perfect for trapping all that zesty goodness.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and bursting with freshness. Slice them in half for easy bites.
• Fresh Mozzarella: Creamy and mild, mozzarella adds a luxurious texture that balances the tangy dressing. Look for small mozzarella balls (ciliegine) and cut them in half.
• Salami: A good, spicy salami adds a bold, savory kick. If you’re not a fan of spice, summer sausage works well, too.
• Kalamata Olives: Briny and salty, they complement the richness of the mozzarella and salami.
• Pepperoncini: These pickled peppers are optional, but they add a subtle heat and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, zesty bite. If you find raw onion too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby finish.

Italian Dressing Ingredients

• Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, adding richness and body.
• White Vinegar: For that tangy bite. Redvinegar vinegar works beautifully too.
• Coarse Sea Salt: Enhances every ingredient in the salad. If you’re using fine salt, reduce the amount slightly.
• Garlic: Freshly minced or powdered, it adds depth and warmth to the dressing.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity.
• Dried Oregano and Basil: Classic Italian flavors that tie everything together.
• Fresh Herbs: Optional, but parsley, basil, or chives elevate the dressing to the next level.

How to Make the Best Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a pasta salad that’s guaranteed to impress:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Toss the cooled pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Pro Tip: Salting the pasta water generously ensures that your pasta is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, garlic, sugar, and dried herbs. If you’re using fresh herbs, add them in at the end. Shake or whisk until the dressing is fully emulsified.

Sarah’s Tip: The dressing might taste a bit salty on its own, but that’s intentional! Once it’s tossed with the pasta and veggies, it’ll be perfectly balanced.

Step 3: Chop the Ingredients

While the pasta cools, chop your veggies, mozzarella, salami, and any other mix-ins you’re using.

Pro Tip: Keep the pieces bite-sized for easy eating. This also helps ensure every bite is full of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, salami, olives, pepperoncini, red onion, and parsley. Drizzle about three-fourths of the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Sarah’s Note: Save the remaining dressing to add just before serving, especially if you’re making the salad ahead of time. This keeps the pasta from soaking up all the dressing and ensures it stays flavorful.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Before serving, give it a good toss and add the remaining dressing if needed.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this pasta salad is how customizable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian: Skip the salami and add extra veggies like blanched green beans, artichoke hearts, or roasted red peppers.
• Protein-Packed: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Cheese Swap: Try feta, Parmesan, or goat cheese in place of mozzarella.
• Extra Herbs: Basil, mint, or dill can add a fresh twist.
• Zesty Add-Ons: A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors even more.

Storing and Making Ahead

One of the best things about pasta salad is how well it keeps:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even better the next day.
• Making Ahead: Assemble the salad 12–24 hours ahead of time, but reserve some of the dressing to toss in just before serving.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the pasta and veggies will change once thawed.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Serve it as:

• A side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or BBQ chicken.
• A light lunch with crusty bread on the side.
• A potluck favorite alongside other summer salads like coleslaw or potato salad.

A Family Favorite

The first time I made this pasta salad, it was for a backyard BBQ with friends. It disappeared so quickly, I barely managed to snag a plate for myself! Since then, it’s been a staple in my summer recipe rotation. My kids love the little mozzarella balls, while my husband can’t get enough of the spicy salami.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is everything you want in a dish: fresh, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. It’s the perfect solution for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or meal prep. Plus, it’s so adaptable that it never feels repetitive.

So, grab your biggest mixing bowl and give it a try. I promise it’ll become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.

Share Your Pasta Salad Creations

When you make this recipe, I’d love to see how you make it your own! Snap a photo, share your favorite mix-ins, and tag me on social media. Let’s celebrate the joy of pasta salad together.

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