There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of a Simple Italian Pasta Salad. This dish comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for warm days, picnics, or as a delightful side for barbecues. The combination of crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and a light dressing offers a refreshing bite that’s hard to resist.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to whip up a quick and delicious meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing lunch for the week, this pasta salad is flexible and easy to store; it tastes even better after being chilled in the fridge for a while.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh flavors from ripe tomatoes and crisp cucumber.
- Chewy pasta provides a satisfying base for the crunchy vegetables.
- Made in just a few simple steps, making prep a breeze.
- Perfect for make-ahead meals, it stays flavorful and vibrant.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients for this delightful pasta salad:
For the Salad
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Swap pasta for gluten-free varieties.
- Use feta cheese instead of mozzarella.
- Replace black olives with green olives.
- Add bell peppers for extra crunch.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for a delicious pasta salad.
1. Cook the pasta
Prepare the pasta according to package directions. Once done, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Combine the salad ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
3. Whisk the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Dress and toss
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill before serving
Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3 to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, pasta texture suffers when frozen.
Reheat: Not necessary; serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips for Best Results
- Rinse pasta thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Allow the salad to sit in the dressing for added taste.
- Adjust seasoning based on your personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a refreshing side dish at barbecues.
- Enjoy as a light lunch on warm days.
- Pair with grilled meats for a complete meal.
