12+ Simple Cold Healthy Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Love This Summer!
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, refreshing meals that don’t heat up your kitchen. Cold pasta salads are a fabulous option—easy to prepare and packed with flavor. These recipes will have you savoring every bite while keeping things healthy and delicious!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 18 min Total Time: 18 min.
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This Mediterranean-inspired salad bursts with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients. The combination of chickpeas, veggies, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer picnics.
8 oz. whole wheat pasta
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this pasta salad special is the combination of protein-rich chickpeas and fresh veggies, making it not only tasty but also filling. The feta cheese adds a creamy tang that perfectly balances the zesty dressing. This salad can be made ahead of time, so it’s great for meal prep or taking to gatherings!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: White balsamic vinegar, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic Total Time: 25 min.
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If you love the classic Caprese salad, this pasta version will steal your heart! With juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, it’s like a summer garden party in a bowl.
8 oz. rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
3 tbsp balsamic glaze
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe shines due to its simple yet vibrant flavors that scream summer. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy kick that takes the dish to a whole new level. Plus, assembling it is a breeze, making it a perfect last-minute option for those hot days when you want something delicious without a lot of work!
The creamy texture of the avocado makes this salad feel indulgent while still being healthy. The homemade pesto is super easy to whip up and packs a ton of flavor. It’s also a fantastic way to use up ripe avocados, and trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe!
Take your taste buds on a trip south of the border with this lively pasta salad! Inspired by the beloved Mexican street corn, this dish is bursting with flavors that will make you feel like you’re at a summer fiesta.
8 oz. elbow macaroni
2 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1/2 red onion, diced
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
This pasta salad is all about fun and flavor! The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy cotija cheese creates a party in your mouth. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies and is perfect for summer barbecues or picnics.
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.
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Transport yourself to the sunny shores of Greece with this refreshing orzo salad! Packed with bright flavors and a medley of textures, it’s the ideal dish for any summer gathering.
8 oz. orzo pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 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 dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
This Greek orzo salad stands out for its combination of flavors and textures, with the olives adding a perfect briny touch. The feta cheese brings a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a light main course, making it a go-to for summer meals!
