Summer is a time for fresh flavors and vibrant dishes that can brighten any gathering. Pasta salads are a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal produce while keeping things light and refreshing. Let’s explore some delicious recipes that will keep you cool and satisfied, all without a hint of cheese!
Mediterranean Orzo Salad


Mediterranean Orzo Salad from The Mediterranean Dish
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 20 min Total Time: 20 min.
This Mediterranean Orzo Salad is bursting with colorful veggies and a zesty dressing that brings everything to life. Perfect for a picnic or a backyard barbecue, this salad is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The orzo pasta adds a lovely texture, making every bite a delightful experience.
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this recipe special is the combination of Mediterranean flavors that transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece. The tanginess of the olives and the freshness of the veggies make each bite a burst of summer. Plus, the orzo is a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional pasta salads.
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Avocado Pasta Salad with Lime Dressing


Avocado Pasta Salad from Spend With Pennies
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Bow tie pasta, bacon, cherry tomatoes, avocado, buttermilk Total Time: 22 min.

Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad from Kalefornia Kravings
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Bow tie pasta, plain greek yogurt, cherry tomatoes, cotija cheese, red onion Total Time: 25 min.

Southwestern Pasta Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing from Two Peas & Their Pod
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Black beans, sweet corn, plain greek yogurt, salad, avocado Total Time: 25 min.
If you’re looking for a creamy yet dairy-free option, this Avocado Pasta Salad is your go-to. The avocado brings a smooth richness, while the lime dressing adds a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the pasta. It’s an exciting way to enjoy avocados beyond toast!
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work great)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
This salad shines not only with its vibrant colors but also with its health benefits. Packed with healthy fats from the avocado and fiber from the corn, it’s a nourishing dish that keeps you satisfied. The lime dressing gives it a kick that balances the creaminess of the avocado perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser at any summer event.
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Chickpea Pasta Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette


Chickpea Pasta Salad from Easy Cheesy Vegetarian
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Feta cheese, fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, arugula, black olives Total Time: 20 min.

Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad with Chickpeas from Tasting to Thrive
Rating: 4. Ingredients: Pasta, nutritional yeast, cherry tomatoes, sunflower seeds, chickpeas Total Time: 20 min.

Chickpea Pesto Pasta Salad from The Full Helping
Rating: 4.3. Ingredients: Gluten free, nutritional yeast, arugula, olive oil, lemon juice Total Time: 30 min.
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this Chickpea Pasta Salad that features a homemade pesto vinaigrette. Chickpeas add a hearty protein punch, making this salad filling enough to be a standalone meal. The vibrant green pesto dressing ties everything together with a fresh herbaceous note that’s simply irresistible.
- 8 oz chickpea pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon pine nuts (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe stands out because of its unique use of chickpea pasta, which not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the protein content. The homemade pesto vinaigrette is a blend of fresh basil and olive oil that makes everything sing with flavor. Perfect for meal prep, this salad keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for busy summer days.