Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 pound tri-colored spiral pasta; 1 (16 ounce) bottle Italian-style salad dressing; 6 tablespoons salad seasoning mix; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 0.5 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 (2.25 ounce) can black olives, chopped

Cook Time: 10 minutes

This easy pasta salad comes together quickly with convenient ingredients and colorful vegetables. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious and vibrant dish perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

1 pound tri-colored spiral pasta
1 (16 ounce) bottle Italian-style salad dressing
6 tablespoons salad seasoning mix
2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 (2.25 ounce) can black olives, chopped

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients. Ensure everything is prepped and ready to go.

Step 2: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still firm to the bite. Once done, rinse the pasta under cold water and drain well.

Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and the salad seasoning mix until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and black olives. Stir to mix evenly.

Step 5: Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together gently, ensuring all ingredients are coated with the dressing.

Step 6: For the best flavor, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 8 hours, or overnight, allowing the ingredients to marinate and the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Once ready to serve, enjoy your homemade pasta salad! It pairs well with a variety of main dishes and is a hit at picnics or potlucks.

Can You Make Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! Pasta salad is an ideal make-ahead dish. In fact, the flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge, so making it a day or two ahead of time will only improve the taste.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have more leftovers than you can eat, you can freeze the salad for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the pasta may become softer once thawed.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving of this pasta salad contains:

Calories: 400
Total Fat: 25g (32% of daily value)
Saturated Fat: 4g (22% of daily value)
Cholesterol: 3mg (1% of daily value)
Sodium: 1904mg (83% of daily value)
Total Carbohydrate: 39g (14% of daily value)
Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% of daily value)
Protein: 8g (16% of daily value)
Vitamin C: 79mg (88% of daily value)
Calcium: 54mg (4% of daily value)
Iron: 3mg (14% of daily value)
Potassium: 298mg (6% of daily value)

Enjoy this colorful, savory pasta salad at your next gathering or as a side dish to your favorite meals!

Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that blends the flavors of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, making it a beloved option for gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. This dish can be customized with a variety of ingredients, making it as versatile as it is delicious. But where did this colorful dish come from, and how does it differ from other similar salads? Let's dive into the origins, regional variations, and unique qualities of pasta salad.

History and Origins of Pasta Salad

The exact origins of pasta salad are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States in the mid-20th century. Its popularity grew in the post-World War II era, when convenience foods, including pre-packaged dressings, became widespread. The dish is thought to have been inspired by traditional European pasta dishes, though the American version is typically served cold and dressed with a variety of seasonings, herbs, and vegetables. Italian cuisine likely influenced the development of pasta salad, particularly with the use of Italian dressing, although this dish has become an international favorite.

Regional Variations and Customization

While pasta salad has become a common dish across the globe, different regions have their own unique spins on the classic. In the United States, pasta salad is often associated with summer barbecues and potlucks, particularly in the Midwest and South. Variations may include the addition of ingredients like diced cheese, pickles, or even fruits such as grapes. In Italy, a similar dish might include fewer ingredients and focus on quality olive oil, fresh herbs, and vegetables, presenting a more minimalist approach compared to the American-style, which is often packed with numerous ingredients.

How Pasta Salad Differs from Similar Dishes

Pasta salad stands apart from other cold pasta dishes, such as "pasta fredda" or the traditional "Italian pasta salad," in a few ways. Pasta salad is usually dressed with a creamy or tangy dressing, such as Italian or mayonnaise-based dressings, and incorporates a broader variety of ingredients like olives, peppers, and sometimes even proteins like ham or chicken. In contrast, Italian pasta salad often sticks to a simpler approach, focusing on fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and a more limited range of vegetables.

Where is Pasta Salad Typically Served?

This dish is a staple at any event where a large number of people are present, from casual family barbecues to more formal picnics. It is especially popular in the summer, as it is easy to prepare in advance and served cold, which makes it ideal for hot weather. Pasta salad is frequently seen at potlucks, church picnics, and barbecues, where it complements grilled meats and other classic American side dishes like coleslaw and baked beans. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an appealing addition to any spread.

Interesting Facts About Pasta Salad

Although it is commonly known as "pasta salad," it is a versatile dish and can be made with other grains like quinoa or couscous, especially for gluten-free diets.
Pasta salad can be made ahead of time, often tasting better after being refrigerated for several hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a more robust taste.
The colorful tri-colored pasta often used in pasta salad is typically made with spinach and tomato powder to give the pasta its vibrant red and green colors.
Despite being a popular dish in the United States, pasta salad is also enjoyed in other parts of the world. In countries like Germany, you might find versions with pickled vegetables and cold cuts, while in the UK, pasta salads are often seen as part of a buffet-style meal.

Conclusion

Pasta salad is more than just a side dish; it's a cultural staple that brings together the freshest vegetables, the brightest flavors, and the simplest of ingredients to create a dish that is beloved worldwide. Whether you're preparing it for a backyard barbecue or a picnic at the park, pasta salad's versatility and deliciousness make it an ever-popular choice. As a dish that has evolved and adapted across different regions, pasta salad is a testament to the creativity of home cooks everywhere.

FAQ about Pasta Salad Recipe

Yes, pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish! The flavors meld best when refrigerated for several hours, so it's even better if made a day or two in advance.

Pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

While freezing pasta salad may affect the texture of the pasta, it can be frozen for up to three months. However, the dressing may become watery upon thawing.

If your pasta salad seems dry after mixing, you can add more dressing or a little bit of olive oil to moisten it. Always check for the right balance of dressing, especially if the pasta absorbs too much.

Yes, this recipe is highly customizable. You can swap or add ingredients like cucumbers, broccoli, different types of cheese, or even proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Refrigerating the pasta salad for several hours or overnight allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.

Yes, you can definitely use homemade dressing. A mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs will work perfectly in place of store-bought Italian dressing.

You can add vegetables like cucumbers, onions, olives, or even roasted peppers. Some people like to add cheese (feta, mozzarella, or cheddar), meats like pepperoni or ham, or even beans for added protein.

Comments

Butterfly Flutterby

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Great stuff. When I am out of Salad Supreme this still is pretty good stuff by adding individual spices listed on the SS bottle. After refrigerating overnight, the day I am serving I sometimes add a bit more salad dressing. Also, you can interchange lots of ingredients: veggies, cubes of cheese, pepperoni slices or ham cubes, etc. This is easily customizable.

cookingpirate47

07/28/2023 08:07:49 PM

Hello, I made this recipe, but I modified the salad dressing somewhat. For the salad dressing I used the Italian salad dressing, I added abt 2 tbsp of fresh chopped garlic, 2 tbsp-Italian herbs, 2 tbsp-Basil, and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese. You can use those fresh herbs in a tube, from the produce section, works great. I mixed the salad dressing with these herbs and let it sit while making everything else. I used 2 12oz. Boxes of Rotini pasta, multi colored. And the bell peppers, I used yellow, orange, and red. Makes for a very colorful pasta and quite tasty. I only add tomatoes at the last minute, since they tend to make things a bit soggy. I have used this recipe at 2 pot lucks and there weren’t any leftovers. This recipe was a great idea for me.I also wanted to add that I also added about a cup, depending on the size package of mozzarella balls, drained, I pat the dry with a paper towel, lightly.

John

01/04/2020 03:02:57 PM

Heres the Salad Seasoning Mix ¼ cup Romano Cheese 1 TBSP Sesame Seed 1 TSP Paprika 1 TSP Poppy Seed 1 TSP Celery Seed 1 ½ TSP Salt ½ TSP Garlic Powder 1.2 TSP Black Pepper 1 dash Cayenne Pepper

TrendyOat5784

07/15/2023 07:14:50 PM

For what it is its a very simple and tasty recipe. I don't understand why you people comment on here that they totally changed this or added that. Why not post your recipe instead of trying to take away from the original. Thank you for sharing the recipe it was excellent

yasuzie

05/19/2023 11:57:03 AM

I make this all the time. Started with the base recipe but I started adding more to it and it’s even better. The key is to let it sit overnight so the flavors can develop. I add broccoli and marinated artichoke hearts (make sure to add some of the oil they’re marinating in to the dressing mix). I prefer Kalamata olives instead of canned. Sometimes I top with crumbled feta right before serving .

Doug in Manhattan

08/22/2021 09:11:33 AM

Be careful when shopping for the tri-color pasta. Most brands come in 12 ounce packages, not full pounds (but are sold in boxes that resemble all of the one-pound regular pasta varieties that surround them on the shelves). So either buy a second box (and use a third of it), or reduce the other ingredients by one-fourth. For me, though, bottled dressings and commercial salad seasoning mixes add too much sodium, especially in combination with the olives. Better to make your own dressing from scratch and maybe add some Italian seasoning, which is just herbs without any salt. A little diced red or sweet onion, and tiny broccoli florets couldn't hurt, either.

kari

06/13/2020 12:51:57 PM

I’m not sure how other reviews said the dressing/seasoning amounts were perfect. After adding 3 TBSP of salad seasoning (McCormick Salad Supreme) I stopped and thank goodness I did. Also, it looked like my salad was sitting in a pool of dressing despite thoroughly mixing. So after a couple hours of it sitting I removed the ingredients into another bowl and got rid of the excess dressing. That seemed to help and everyone loved it . So the next time I only did half a bottle and 2 1/2 Tbsp of the seasoning and it was perfect. I had omitted the yellow pepper and added cucumbers.

amberdunn11

02/13/2020 02:28:15 AM

Great recipe! I did some slight changes- used red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and I cut the tomatoes in half. Used about 4 tablespoons of the salad mix and a half bottle of dressing. Very customizable recipe! Make sure to allow the noodles and broccoli to cool completely before combining with the other ingredients. Also, I enjoyed the salad better after refrigerating for 30min.

Melissa M

10/16/2020 01:00:58 PM

This is a great starter recipe. I second other suggestions here to play with it. I cook using what I have on hand-i am not running to the store for 1-3 ingredients. I made a few substitutions: 1 oven roasted and chilled spaghetti squash for the pasta, 1/2 c up dressing and 3tbsp ranch dressing mix, added carrots asking with all the veggies requested and a leftover half of an English cucumber cubed. Tasted it and it is pretty delicious. I probably could have used even less dressing, as the squash is pretty watery on its own and I hate mushy salads. Happy cooking!

Cassidy Case

04/26/2020 12:22:40 AM

Super easy, fast, amazing side! I left out olives cause we don’t like then and added some onions, garlic powder, mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese! Put in fridge for a few hours before serving, worked out wonderful. Highly recommend.

Lori

07/04/2019 04:28:04 PM

I made this recipe and started to put in 6 Tablespoons of Salad Seasoning mix per the instructions, but found that after 2 Tablespoons I had more than enough seasoning. I used McCormick's Perfect Pinch Salad Supreme Seasoning.

michelle whitmore

05/23/2025 06:05:05 AM

💯

Norma

05/21/2025 06:49:58 PM

I've been making this recipe for a long time. I add mini cucumbers sliced, and broccoli, and feta cheese or shredded parmesan cheese. The parmesan is actually quite good! And instead of the salad dressing mix I've always just added the Tuscany blend from All things Spice. I also like to get the tri-colored or heirloom colored tomatoes to keep the colorful combination going. Some chunks of yellow summer squash is good in place of cucumber if you don't have it.

John Boy

05/21/2025 12:34:44 AM

Definitely a crowd-pleaser. My family loved it

ZanyTaco8012

05/05/2025 06:43:56 PM

I always add chopped zucchini and sliced mozzarella cheese sticks

bzymom

03/29/2025 02:11:02 PM

Wonderful and fresh pasta salad. Makes a generous amount for a gathering. Everyone loves this when I take it to a potluck!

GentleOats3374

03/24/2025 12:45:18 AM

Really good! I will make this recipe again. I added garbanzo beans for a little protein. I made the dressing from scratch via the link, and I did add about two tbsp of red wine vinegar, to taste; however, that may just be our palates or that particular dressing. A nice side dish, or even a complete meal.

hopenhop12

12/29/2024 11:59:36 PM

have not made this yet, but sounds like a good recipe. Can you tell me about the seasoning mix??? I don't seem to find a link to create it. Thank you.

FeistySeed7652

11/02/2024 09:08:16 PM

Not bad but I'm not sure I would make it again.

Brandon Miller

11/01/2024 04:43:13 AM

Made it for dinner — everyone devoured it.