Classic Pasta Salad Recipe

Classic Pasta Salad is a colorful, zesty, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for every occasion, whether it’s a family barbecue, a summer picnic, or a weeknight dinner. With al dente tri-color pasta, pops of juicy tomatoes, hearty pepperoni, fresh veggies, and creamy cheeses all tossed in a lively homemade vinaigrette, it’s a celebration of color, flavor, and comfort on every forkful. This is one recipe you’ll turn to again and again whenever you need something delicious that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Classic Pasta Salad keeps things wonderfully simple, letting each ingredient shine and lend its own special something to the bowl. Every element adds either a splash of color, a tasty bit of crunch, or a punch of flavor that makes this dish irresistible.

• Tri-color rotini pasta (24 ounces): The fun spirals grab onto the dressing and make every bite lively and colorful.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 pint, halved): These juicy gems burst with fresh summer flavor and brighten up the salad.
• Sliced pepperoni (12 ounces): Adds a savory, meaty punch that turns the salad into a meal.
• Red onion (1, diced): Provides a crisp bite and just the right amount of sharpness.
• Green bell pepper (1, diced): Brings crunch and a sweet, grassy note that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.
• Mozzarella cheese (16 ounces, cubed): Soft, creamy, and mild—it’s little bites of joy scattered throughout.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): For that irresistible salty, nutty finish all great pasta salads have.
• Olives (8 ounces, sliced): A briny punch that balances out the creamy and savory elements.
• Olive oil (1 ½ cups): The silky base for our zesty homemade vinaigrette.
• Red wine vinegar (½ cup): Brings a bright tang that wakes up all the other flavors.
• Italian seasoning (2 tablespoons): A classic blend that infuses the salad with herby warmth.
• Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): For rich, mellow garlic flavor without overpowering the dressing.
• Salt (1 ½ teaspoons): Lets all the flavors pop—don’t skimp!
• Pepper (1 teaspoon): A little heat and aroma to tie everything together.
• Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick if you like a little spice in your salad.

How to Make Classic Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—that salt is key for flavoring the pasta right from the start. Cook the tri-color rotini according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which means it’s cooked but still has a bit of bite. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This step cools it down quickly and helps keep the noodles from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Add-Ins

While the pasta is cooling, tackle your chopping. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice up the red onion and green bell pepper, cube the mozzarella, and slice your olives if needed. Toss all these delightful add-ins—along with the pepperoni, parmesan, and mozzarella—into a big serving bowl. This is where the Classic Pasta Salad really starts to come together.

Step 3: Mix the Vinaigrette

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. The vinaigrette comes together in seconds and has so much flavor that it brings every ingredient to life. Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if you like it more tangy or spicy.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add your cooled pasta to the bowl with all those veggies, cheeses, and meats. Pour the vinaigrette evenly over the entire bowl. Grab your largest spoon (or even use clean hands if you love to cook rustic!) and toss everything together so the dressing coats every spiral and chunk. This is where the salad starts looking utterly irresistible.

Step 5: Chill and Toss Before Serving

Let the Classic Pasta Salad rest in the fridge for at least an hour—overnight is even better if you have the time. This lets all the flavors mingle and deepen. Before serving, let the salad sit out for 20 to 30 minutes if it’s been chilling for a while, then give it a good toss so the dressing is evenly distributed.

How to Serve Classic Pasta Salad

Garnishes

To give your Classic Pasta Salad that extra wow factor, try sprinkling some more grated parmesan, a handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil, or even a few extra red pepper flakes on top. It not only looks inviting but adds another layer of fresh flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Serve this vibrant salad alongside grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or roasted veggies. It’s also a marvelous companion for a simple deli sandwich or even as part of a bigger picnic spread. The balance of crunchy veggies and tangy vinaigrette means it pairs well with almost anything.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your Classic Pasta Salad in a large glass bowl for maximum color impact, or portion it out into individual mason jars for a fun, portable vibe at picnics or parties. You can even serve it inside bell pepper halves for an eye-popping, edible vessel that adds crunch to every serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Pasta Salad stores like a dream. Simply cover the bowl tightly or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Give it a toss before serving and maybe a quick splash of extra dressing if the pasta has absorbed it all.

Freezing

While some salads freeze well, Classic Pasta Salad really is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can change the texture of the pasta and veggies, making them mushy when thawed. For best results, keep it refrigerated and enjoy it within a few days.

Reheating

This salad is actually made for eating cold or at room temperature! If it’s been in the fridge, just let it sit out for 20 to 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can fully come back to life. There’s no need to reheat—just toss and enjoy.

FAQs

Can I skip the pepperoni to make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian take on Classic Pasta Salad, simply leave out the pepperoni. You can add extra veggies or cubes of marinated tofu if you’d like more bulk and flavor.

What type of pasta works best if I don’t have tri-color rotini?

While tri-color rotini adds visual flair, any bite-sized pasta like penne, bowties, or regular rotini will work beautifully. Just aim for something with curves or ridges to help the vinaigrette cling.

How far in advance can I prepare Classic Pasta Salad?

You can make Classic Pasta Salad up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, making it the night before gives the flavors plenty of time to blend, so each bite is more delicious. Just toss it again before serving.

Can I use store-bought Italian dressing?

Yes, if you’re in a pinch, a good quality bottled Italian dressing works fine! That said, the homemade vinaigrette in this recipe really takes the Classic Pasta Salad to the next level with its bold, fresh flavors.

How do I keep the pasta from becoming soggy?

Cooking the pasta just to al dente and rinsing it with cold water stops the cooking process, keeping it perfectly firm. Also, dress and toss right before chilling, and don’t let it soak in excess dressing for longer than needed.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Classic Pasta Salad, you’ll see why it’s a favorite at so many gatherings. Every bite is vibrant, satisfying, and full of personality. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your own weeknight table, give this recipe a spot in your collection—you’re sure to come back to it all summer long!

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