9+ Simple Fresh Pasta Salad Recipes to Brighten Your Summer Gatherings!
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Summer is the perfect time to enjoy bright flavors and fresh ingredients, and pasta salads are a delightful way to bring everyone together. With their colorful ingredients and mouthwatering combinations, these dishes are sure to impress your friends and family at any gathering. Get ready to explore some simple recipes that will add a splash of joy to your summer celebrations!
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: White balsamic vinegar, radiatore pasta, mozzarella balls, lemon, balsamic glaze Total Time: 15 min.
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This Caprese Pasta Salad brings the classic Italian flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil right to your bowl. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, it’s a perfect dish to serve at picnics or barbecues. The combination of al dente pasta and creamy cheese makes each bite feel like a celebration of summer.
12 oz pasta (like rotini or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this salad so special is the bright, sweet-tart flavor of the balsamic vinegar paired with the creamy mozzarella. And let’s not forget the fresh basil that adds an aromatic touch! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just cook the pasta, toss everything together, and you’ve got yourself a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes. Perfect for impressing guests or just savoring on a sunny afternoon!
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Penne pasta, red wine vinegar, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber Total Time: 3 hr 30 min.
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This Greek Pasta Salad is a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will leave you craving more. With crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and briny olives, every bite is packed with deliciousness. It’s a hearty salad that can easily stand on its own or serve as a side dish to grilled meats.
12 oz pasta (like fusilli or orzo)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
This salad stands out for its hearty ingredients and zesty dressing that ties everything together beautifully. The fresh veggies give it a satisfying crunch, while the feta adds a creamy, tangy kick that just sings of summer. It’s also super versatile—feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost! Your guests will love the vibrant flavors and colorful presentation.
Get ready for a flavor fiesta with this Southwestern Pasta Salad! With black beans, corn, and a zesty lime dressing, this dish is a delightful twist on traditional pasta salads. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, bringing a fun and colorful flair to your table.
12 oz pasta (like shells or elbow)
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
This salad is loved for its bold flavors and textures that come together in a delightful way. The lime dressing adds a refreshing zing, while the black beans and corn provide a satisfying heartiness. Plus, it’s a breeze to make—just cook the pasta, mix everything together, and let the flavors meld in the fridge. Your friends will be asking for seconds and thirds!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
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If you’re looking for a pasta salad that’s packed with flavors, this Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad is the one! Featuring an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated veggies, it’s like a charcuterie board in salad form. This dish is a showstopper at any summer gathering, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
12 oz pasta (like rotini or farfalle)
1/2 cup salami, sliced
1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
1 cup mozzarella balls
1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
1/4 cup olives (green or black)
1/4 cup Italian dressing
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
This pasta salad is special because it combines all the best flavors of an antipasto platter into one dish. The variety of textures—from chewy meats to creamy cheese—makes it incredibly satisfying. With a drizzle of Italian dressing, everything comes together in a way that’s rich and savory. Trust me, this one will be gone before you know it!
