Quick Cold Pasta Salad Recipe

Quick cold pasta salad recipe always reminds me of a sunny afternoon when I needed a fresh, colorful dish to bring to a last-minute picnic and I remember tossing the veggies and pasta together in a big bowl, feeling instantly cheerful from all the vibrant colors and as I drizzled the tangy dressing over the noodles and watched it coat every piece, I knew it would be a big hit and the first bite was bright, crisp, and so satisfying that I couldn’t stop sneaking little forkfuls before packing it up. By the time I shared it at the picnic, everyone was asking for seconds and the recipe.

I love making this quick cold pasta salad recipe because it’s fast, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser and it’s the perfect side dish for cookouts, potlucks, or even a light lunch and every bite bursts with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and savory olives, making it one of my favorite ways to celebrate summer flavors.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Rotini pasta – The perfect shape to hold onto all the dressing and veggie bits.
• Cherry tomatoes – Add juicy sweetness and color.
• Cucumber – Gives a cool, refreshing crunch.
• Red onion – Adds a crisp, tangy bite.
• Black olives – Brings a savory, salty touch.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty finish.
• Fresh basil – Bright, fragrant, and refreshing.
• Olive oil – The base of a simple dressing that brings it all together.
• Red wine vinegar – Adds tangy brightness to balance the veggies.
• Dijon mustard – Gives the dressing a little extra kick.
• Garlic – For rich, aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning everything perfectly.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – For cooking the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Strainer – To drain and rinse the pasta quickly.
• Large mixing bowl – Perfect for tossing everything together.
• Whisk – To mix up the dressing smoothly.
• Knife – For chopping all the fresh veggies.
• Cutting board – A sturdy surface for prepping.
• Salad tongs – For tossing and serving.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.

Step 2

While the pasta cools, I chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3

In a small bowl, I whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make a quick, zesty dressing.

Step 4

I transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl and add the chopped vegetables and black olives.

Step 5

I pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies and toss everything until well coated.

Step 6

I sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil and toss again gently.

Step 7

I taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed.

Step 8

I chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Tips

You can easily swap in other veggies like bell peppers or add protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken to make it more filling. For an extra burst of flavor, I love adding crumbled feta or a few sun-dried tomatoes. If you’re short on time, store-bought Italian dressing works in a pinch, but homemade is always worth it!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this quick cold pasta salad recipe alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a fresh side at summer barbecues. It’s also great as a light lunch on its own or packed up for a picnic. Leftovers make an easy, flavorful meal the next day too!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make quick cold pasta salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Bowties, penne, or fusilli all work beautifully.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this quick cold pasta salad recipe a try! It’s fresh, fun, and perfect for any occasion, and I’d love to hear what you think. Please leave a comment or share your beautiful picnic photos it always makes my day to see your creations! And if you enjoy this recipe, don’t forget to save it for your next summer gathering.

Happy Cooking!