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Pasta Salad Recipe – Easy Cold Pasta Salad for Any Occasion

By Lase Chase saima info, pasta recipes
Pasta salad recipes

This pasta salad recipe is fresh, colorful, and very easy to make. It is a perfect cold pasta salad for lunch, dinner, picnics, or parties. You can prepare it in advance, keep it in the fridge, and enjoy it anytime. Inspired by Olive Garden pasta salad, this dish tastes light, zesty, and delicious.

Whether you need easy cold pasta salad recipes or a refreshing side dish like those from popular salad places, this recipe works every time.

Ingredients for Pasta Salad

For the Salad

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or bow-tie)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
  • 1 cup cucumber (chopped)
  • ½ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
  • ½ cup black olives (sliced)
  • ½ cup sweet corn
  • ½ cup mozzarella cubes or feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
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Optional Add-ins

  • Grilled chicken
  • Chickpeas
  • Bell peppers

Ingredients for Dressing (Olive Garden Style)

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey

This dressing also works well for pesto pasta salad and other cold salad recipes pasta.

How to Make Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until soft but firm. Drain and rinse with cold water. This helps keep the pasta perfect for a pasta salad recipe cold pasta style.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop all vegetables into small, even pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, add pasta, vegetables, cheese, and dressing. Toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. This makes the easy cold pasta salad taste even better.

Pasta Salad Variations

  • Pesto Pasta Salad – Add basil pesto instead of dressing
  • Creamy Pasta Salad – Mix in mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • Garden Pasta Salad – Add more fresh vegetables like carrots and lettuce

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with grilled meat or sandwiches
  • Great for BBQs and potlucks
  • Enjoy as a light lunch or dinner
  • Perfect make-ahead meal for busy days

Final Thoughts

This pasta salad is simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Whether you love Olive Garden pasta salad, want easy cold pasta salad recipes, or need a refreshing dish like those from your favorite salad places, this recipe is a perfect choice.

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