Cold Pasta Salad is a wonderfully refreshing dish, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer barbecue or simply want a tasty lunch option, this salad checks all the boxes. It combines delicious flavors with vibrant colors and can be easily customized to suit your taste. With its chilled pasta base mixed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, every bite bursts with flavor. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg

Why Make This Cold Pasta Salad

Making this Cold Pasta Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a light and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s versatile—great for gatherings, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy mozzarella paired with a zesty dressing tantalizes your taste buds, while the cold temperature makes it especially refreshing. Plus, it can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy days.

How to Make Cold Pasta Salad

Crafting this delicious salad is simple. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup olives, sliced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Mixing the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Preparing the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Step 4: Combining Everything

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Chilling

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Cold Pasta Salad

Serve this Cold Pasta Salad on a large platter or in individual bowls. It’s delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side dish at barbecues. For an added crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted pine nuts or seeds on top just before serving.

How to Store Cold Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to grab a quick lunch or snack throughout the week.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cold Pasta Salad

Pasta Choice: Opt for short pasta shapes, like fusilli or penne, which hold onto the dressing and mix well with the other ingredients.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinsing the pasta under cold water not only cools it down but also prevents it from sticking together.
Vegan Option: Substitute mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative or skip cheese entirely for a vegan version.
Extra Flavor: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the flavor profile even more.
Customizable Add-ins: Feel free to throw in any seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Add artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and fresh herbs for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, mix in a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt along with the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe and will taste just as delicious.
How long can Cold Pasta Salad be stored?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Is it okay to add meat?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even sliced salami can be added for a protein boost.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead for even more flavor development. Just give it a good toss before serving.
What dressing alternatives can I use?
You can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Cold Pasta Salad is not only easy to make but is also a versatile dish that can suit various tastes and occasions. With its refreshing blend of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. So gather your ingredients, follow these straightforward steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful salad. Happy cooking!

Cold Pasta Salad

Author: mia-harper
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A wonderfully refreshing dish perfect for any occasion, combining delicious flavors with vibrant colors.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup olives, sliced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and mozzarella cheese.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

Pasta choice: Opt for short pasta shapes. Rinse pasta thoroughly to prevent sticking. Vegan option available by substituting cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Chilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 20mg