This Easy Summer Pasta Salad is colorful and refreshing! Filled with tasty veggies, pasta, and a simple dressing, it’s perfect for warm days and picnics.
It’s so easy, even your dog could help! Just cook the pasta, chop the veggies, and mix it all together. I usually make a big bowl, perfect for sharing with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini pasta because its twists hold onto the dressing and veggies well. If you don’t have it, penne or fusilli are great choices too. Even gluten-free pasta works if needed!
Veggies: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness, but you can swap them for diced cucumbers or shredded carrots – both are crunchy and refreshing! Baby spinach is great, but arugula adds a nice peppery kick.
Protein: Chickpeas are a fantastic choice for protein and fiber. If you prefer, you can use canned black beans or grilled chicken for variety. Just make sure to drain and rinse canned options for better flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess, but feta cheese can give a nice tangy flavor if you want to change things up. Just crumble it over the top instead of cubing.
How Can I Make My Pasta Salad Extra Flavorful?
Tossing in a good dressing is key! Start with a base of olive oil and red wine vinegar for brightness. Here’s a quick tip: let the dressing rest for a few minutes after stirring so the flavors meld – it makes a difference!
- Always taste the dressing before adding it to your salad. Adjust with more vinegar or seasoning if it needs a boost.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes; this helps the pasta absorb the dressing and flavors mix nicely.
- Add the cheese right before serving to keep it fresh. If you mix it too early, it can get soggy.
Easy Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, orange)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing salad ready to enjoy at your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Grab a large pot and fill it with salted water. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you gather the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, sliced bell peppers, Kalamata olives, chickpeas, mozzarella cheese cubes, and finely diced red onion. That’s a lot of colorful veggies!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk everything until it’s well combined and smooth. This simple dressing will add a delicious flavor to your salad.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Toss gently with a spoon until everything is nicely coated in the dressing. It’s okay to get a little messy—just make sure all the ingredients are mixed together!
5. Add the Final Touches:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top of the salad. Give it a light mix to combine everything. This garnish adds extra flavor and freshness!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to a serving dish and cover it. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, serve it cold or at room temperature. Perfect for warm days!
7. Enjoy!
Dig into this colorful, fresh, and delightful summer pasta salad. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a fun and easy dinner at home!
Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Summer Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times. Enjoy your gluten-free version!
How Long Can I Store This Salad?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get better as it sits! Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Yes! This salad is super versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Just keep the dressing in mind so it balances out the flavors!
What Should I Do If the Salad Seems Dry After Chilling?
If your pasta salad seems dry after chilling, just add a splash of olive oil or a bit more dressing to moisten it before serving. Mix well and enjoy it fresh!
