Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

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A bright and zesty pasta salad with Italian dressing is the perfect dish to bring to a picnic, potluck, or just to enjoy as a refreshing lunch. Bursting with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy homemade or store-bought Italian dressing, this salad is both hearty and light, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

What makes this pasta salad so delightful is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, swap in gluten-free pasta, or add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. The Italian dressing ties everything together with just the right balance of acidity and herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

You’ll love how easy this pasta salad is to whip up while still looking and tasting impressive. It’s great for meal prep since it stays delicious even after a couple of days in the fridge, and it’s a colorful way to get in more vegetables. Plus, the Italian dressing gives it a punch of flavor without being heavy.

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes, you absolutely can. While rotini or bow tie pasta are classic choices because their shape holds onto the dressing well, you can use penne, macaroni, or even spaghetti broken into pieces. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even legume-based pastas all work beautifully in this adaptable dish.

Ingredients for the Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta is the foundation of this salad, providing a tender, chewy base that soaks up all the zesty dressing. Fresh bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions add color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy dressing. Black olives bring a salty depth while mozzarella cubes or shredded cheese add a creamy element. Finally, the Italian dressing itself is the star, coating each bite in a herby, vibrant flavor.

How To Make the Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, dice the bell peppers, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onions thinly, and drain and slice the black olives. If using mozzarella, cut it into cubes or have shredded cheese ready.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the vegetables, olives, and cheese. Toss everything gently to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Dress and Chill

Pour your Italian dressing over the salad, starting with about half a cup and adding more as needed to fully coat everything. Mix well, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

This pasta salad serves about 6 to 8 people as a side dish and 4 as a main dish. It’s perfect chilled and served straight from the fridge, making it a refreshing addition to any summer table. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing over time, just drizzle a little more before serving to revive the flavors.

What to Serve With Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing?

Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the bright flavors of this pasta salad, adding protein and smoky notes.

Garlic Bread

A warm slice of garlic bread is a classic and satisfying complement to the chilled, zesty salad.

Caprese Skewers

Tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers make a light and colorful addition alongside the salad.

BBQ Ribs

For a hearty backyard barbecue, serve this pasta salad with tender, saucy ribs for a complete feast.

Roasted Vegetables

If you’re keeping things vegetarian, a platter of roasted zucchini, eggplant, and carrots is a great match.

Fried Fish

Crispy fried fish contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese and crisp vegetables in the salad.

Lemonade or Iced Tea

Round out your meal with a refreshing pitcher of lemonade or iced tea to sip on with every bite.

Want More Salad Ideas?

If you love this pasta salad with Italian dressing, you’ll probably enjoy these other fresh and flavorful recipes from Luna Meals:

• Apple Salad for a sweet and crisp twist.
• Easter Fruit Fluff Salad if you’re craving something creamy and festive.
• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad for a rich, tangy variation.
• Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken if you’d like a citrusy, protein-packed option.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add any unique vegetables or try a homemade dressing? Did you serve it warm or keep it chilled?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other create the best pasta salads possible.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

This pasta salad with Italian dressing is as versatile as it is delicious. With its vibrant colors, satisfying textures, and zesty flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether for a picnic, a quick lunch, or a side at dinner, it never fails to impress.

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