Why Make This Recipe

Classic Pasta Salad is a fresh, colorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and can be served at family gatherings, picnics, or barbecues. This salad is not only delicious but also flexible, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and dressings. The vibrant ingredients make it visually appealing, and it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, as you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

How to Make Classic Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

Tri-color rotini pasta
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, diced
Bell peppers, diced
Red onion, finely chopped
Mozzarella cheese, cubed
Black olives, sliced
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Dijon mustard
Salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning

Directions:

Cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and black olives.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to make the vinaigrette.
Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy at picnics or summer gatherings!

How to Serve Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad is best served cold. You can present it in a large bowl or individual serving cups for parties. Consider adding extra toppings like freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs nicely with grilled meats or serves as a light meal on its own.

How to Store Classic Pasta Salad

To store Classic Pasta Salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you notice that the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a little more vinaigrette before serving to bring back the flavor.

Tips to Make Classic Pasta Salad

Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before mixing in the vegetables to prevent them from wilting.
Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a more filling option.
Experiment with different vegetables or cheeses, such as feta or cheddar, to suit your taste.

Variation

You can create a Mediterranean twist by adding ingredients like artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach. For a more Italian flavor, incorporate fresh basil and replace the mozzarella with feta cheese.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Classic Pasta Salad

A fresh and colorful dish perfect for gatherings, this Classic Pasta Salad can be customized with favorite vegetables and dressings, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 30

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

1 lb Tri-color rotini pasta Use any pasta shape as a substitute if desired.
1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved Add more or less according to taste.
1 cup Cucumber, diced Peel if desired.
1 cup Bell peppers, diced Use a mix of colors for a vibrant salad.
1/2 cup Red onion, finely chopped Soak in cold water to mellow the flavor if desired.
1 cup Mozzarella cheese, cubed Can substitute with feta or other cheeses.
1/2 cup Black olives, sliced Optional; can omit or substitute with green olives.

Vinaigrette Dressing

1/4 cup Olive oil Extra virgin olive oil recommended.
2 tablespoons Red wine vinegar Can substitute with white wine vinegar.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adds zing to the dressing.
1/2 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
1/4 teaspoon Pepper Freshly ground is best.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Can use homemade or store-bought.

Method

Preparation

Cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and black olives.

Making the Vinaigrette

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss to combine.

Final Steps

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve cold in a large bowl or individual serving cups. Consider adding toppings like grated Parmesan or fresh herbs. This salad pairs nicely with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.