Discover quick and easy pasta salad recipes perfect for any occasion. From classic to creative, these flavorful dishes are ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light meal. Ready in minutes, delicious every time!
No-Cook Wonders: Easy Pasta Salad Recipes to Make in No Time!
Pasta salads are the ultimate go-to dishes for any occasion, loved for their unbeatable combination of convenience, versatility, and crowd-pleasing appeal.
Whether you’re looking for easy pasta salad recipes for a work lunch, a vibrant dish for a family gathering, or a cozy dinner for two, they’re perfect for any time or meal.
With the right recipes, a handful of ingredients, and minimal effort, you can whip up pasta salads that are not only delicious but also customizable to fit your needs.
Tips for Making the Perfect Pasta Salad
Choose the Right Pasta
Choose the right pasta: select short, sturdy shapes that hold the dressing and toppings well, such as penne, fusilli, rotini, or bowtie. For a healthier twist, try whole-grain or legume-based pasta.
Cook It Right
The key to a perfect pasta salad is cooking the pasta al dente. Avoid overcooking it to prevent a mushy texture in your salad.
Cool It Down
It’s important to cool the pasta immediately after cooking. Rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent clumping.
Don’t Skimp on the Dressing
A good dressing is essential for pasta salads! Since cooked pasta absorbs dressing over time, make a little extra to refresh the salad before serving.
Mix Textures & Layer Flavors
Keep each bite exciting with a mix of crunchy, creamy, tangy, and savory flavors for an explosion of taste! Add extra crunch with nuts or raw vegetables, and layer in flavors like tangy (vinegar, lemon zest), sweet (honey, maple syrup), salty (olives, cheeses), and fresh (herbs, greens) for a well-balanced dish.
Include Seasonal Ingredients
Whether the recipe calls for it or not, you can always incorporate seasonal veggies, fruits, and herbs into your pasta salads. Consider adding hearty root vegetables in the fall, or vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs in the summer.
Whether you’re sticking to simple pasta salad recipes or experimenting with bold flavors, the right combination of ingredients makes them as satisfying as they are versatile.
So, gp ahead, grab your favorite pasta, and start tossing up something amazing. Bon appétit!
Easy Pasta Salad Recipes: The Ultimate Guide for Quick and Delicious Meals!
Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad
Recipe by Eat With Clarity
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A refreshing, vegan pasta salad packed with crisp veggies like cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion, perfectly cooked pasta and hearty chickpeas. Tossed in a simple olive oil lemon vinaigrette, it’s healthy and vibrant!
Get the Recipe for Mediterranean Chickpea Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 318kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 15g
Make-Ahead Tuna Pasta Salad (No Mayo!)
Recipe by Well Seasoned Studio
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 25 mins Chill: 2 hours
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ This Make-Ahead Pasta Salad is made with jarred tuna fish, making it inexpensive to make and delicious. With no mayonnaise, it’s dressed in a homemade balsamic vinaigrette for a light, flavorful twist. Perfect for prepping ahead and enjoying later!
Get the Recipe for Make-Ahead Tuna Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 2g
Green Goddess Pasta Salad (Gluten-Free)
Recipe by Cotter Crunch
Ready in ~ 20 mins
Yields ~ 6 to 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ This gluten-free and vegan pasta salad recipe comes together with tender pasta, vibrant fresh veggies, and a creamy, refreshing vegan green goddess dressing. A healthy, full of flavor, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time!
Get the Recipe for Gluten-Free Green Goddess Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 311kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 14.6g
Italian Pasta Salad (Vegetarian)
Recipe by Dishing Out Health
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Packed with chickpeas, and vibrant veggies, and tossed in a homemade, zesty Italian dressing. It’s easy to make, make-ahead friendly, and super versatile, making it the perfect recipe for any time!
Get the Recipe for Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 370kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 11g
Summer Tortellini Pasta Salad
Recipe by The Modern Proper
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 5 mins
Yields ~ 10 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ This Summer Pasta Salad is made with the classic Italian Caprese trio of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes with tender tortellini. A vibrant, refreshing salad that’s perfect for a light meal!
Get the Recipe for Summer Tortellini Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 274kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 14g
Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad
Recipe by Kalefornia Kravings
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 13 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Loaded with fresh veggies and avocado, all tossed in a creamy, zesty cilantro lime dressing. Quick, full of flavor, and the perfect easy potluck idea!
Get the Recipe for Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad!
Orzo Salad with Prosciutto & Parmesan Vinaigrette
Recipe by The Original Dish
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 13 mins
Yields ~ 4 to 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Bursting with flavor, this pasta salad is packed with charred corn, caramelized cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, fresh basil, and chives. It’s made even better with thinly sliced prosciutto and tossed in a garlicky, savory parmesan vinaigrette—perfect for an elegant dinner!
Get the Recipe for Orzo Salad with Prosciutto!
Horiatiki (Village) Pasta Salad
Recipe by The Lemon Apron
Ready in ~ 30 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Named after the traditional Greek Village Salad, it combines crisp bell peppers, crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, and creamy feta, all dressed in a simple, flavorful vinaigrette. A fresh and authentic taste of Greece!
Get the Recipe for Horiatiki (Village) Pasta Salad!
Creamy Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad
Recipe by Plays Well With Butter
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 8 to 12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A creamy vegan pasta salad loaded with peppers, tomatoes, black beans, and corn, all tossed in a zesty, vegan southwest dressing. Naturally dairy-free, vegetarian, oil-free, and easily gluten-free, it’s a flavorful and easy dish to whip up!
Get the Recipe for Creamy Vegan Southwest Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 272kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 10.4g
Hawaiian-Style Macaroni Salad
Recipe by So Much Food
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 6 to 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A creamy, no-frills classic that only takes 30 minutes to prep! Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s the perfect quick and delicious pasta dish for any meal or gathering!
Get the Recipe for Hawaiian-Style Macaroni Salad!
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Recipe by What Molly Made
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Comes together in just 30 minutes with crunchy lettuce, parmesan cheese, croutons, tomato, and a quick homemade Caesar dressing. A perfect, delicious twist on the classic Caesar salad with pasta and chicken!
Get the Recipe for Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 410kcal
Carbohydrates: 33.5g
Protein: 19.3g
Chicken Spinach Pasta Salad (With A Citrus Vinaigrette)
Recipe by Chelsea’s Messy Apron
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings (as a side)
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with baby spinach, miniature bowtie pasta, tender rotisserie chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy toasted almonds, all tossed in a fresh and lively citrus vinaigrette. A vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for a light lunch or side!
Get the Recipe for Chicken Spinach Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 422kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 27g
Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad
Recipe by Half Baked Harvest
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 30 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made by roasting beets, boiling short-cut pasta, and tossing the hot pasta with creamy goat cheese and a touch of fresh basil vinaigrette. A simple yet flavorful salad that’s perfect for any time!
Get the Recipe for Basil Goat Cheese Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 519kcal
Cowboy Pasta Salad
Recipe by Carlsbad Cravings
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 10-12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Purely addicting, loaded with juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, sweet corn, black beans, tomatoes, and cheese, all smothered in a tangy, creamy southwest BBQ sauce. A hearty and full of flavor pasta salad that’s perfect for any meal!
Get the Recipe for Cowboy Pasta Salad!
Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad
Recipe by What Molly Made
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Loaded with fresh vegetables and tossed in a standout dressing so flavorful, you could drink it! A vibrant, delicious, and easy pasta salad recipe that’s perfect for any meal or gathering.
Get the Recipe for Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 318kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 9g
Taco Pasta Salad
Recipe by Insanely Good Recipes
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Packed with seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and plenty of cheese, all tossed in a creamy, zesty dressing. All your taco favorites in a delicious pasta salad!
Get the Recipe for Taco Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 589kcal
Spinach & Artichoke Pasta Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Recipe by From My Bowl
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Tossed in Basil Vinaigrette, with fresh spinach, tender artichokes, and savory sun-dried tomatoes in a fragrant, basil-infused vinaigrette. Offering both vegan and gluten-free options, it’s a light, full-of-flavor pasta salad dish!
Get the Recipe for Spinach & Artichoke Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 425kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 11g
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Recipe by Julia’s Album
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Pasta mixed with fresh corn, cilantro, bell peppers, lime juice, and Cotija cheese, all tossed in a homemade creamy dressing. A vibrant, savory and tangy flavored pasta salad inspired by the flavors of Mexican street corn!
Get the Recipe for Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 471kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 18g
Kale Caesar Pasta Salad
Recipe by Midwest Foodie
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 8 to 10 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Perfect for when you want something a little lighter, filled with fresh vegetables! An easy 20-minute, veggie-loaded pasta salad with classic Caesar flavors with nutrient-packed kale and pasta for a refreshing twist.
Get the Recipe for Kale Caesar Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 365kcal
Carbohydrates: 30.7g
Protein: 12.3g
Creamy Tahini Pasta Salad
Recipe by Midget Momma
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Packed with all the healthy stuff, keeping it nice and fresh while still being creamy and delicious. Wholesome, satisfying pasta salad that’s perfect for a light meal or side!
Get the Recipe for Creamy Tahini Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 319kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 11g
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Recipe by The Wooden Skillet
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 12 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A must-try for all dill pickle lovers! Made with fresh pickles, fresh herbs, cooked pasta, and a delicious creamy dressing, it’s a tangy and flavorful dish perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe for Dill Pickle Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 229kcal
Carbohydrates: 30.8g
Protein: 6.1g
Shrimp Pasta Salad
Recipe by A Couple Cooks
Ready in ~ Prep: 12 mins Cook: 8 mins
Yields ~ 6 to 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Creamy and irresistible, packed with crunchy veggies and fresh herbs. A retro favorite that’s perfect for potlucks, lunches, or a quick, satisfying meal!
Get the Recipe for Shrimp Pasta Salad!
Peanut Broccoli Pasta Salad
Recipe by Mad About Food
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A flavorful blend of tender pasta and crisp broccoli, tossed in a simple peanut dressing. Perfectly creamy, nutty, and refreshing for any meal.
Get the Recipe for Peanut Broccoli Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 274kcal
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 11g
Peach, Tomato & Corn Arugula Pasta Salad
Recipe by Ambitious Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made by combining juicy peaches, ripe tomatoes, and sweet corn off the cob. This vegetarian pasta salad is lightly tossed with olive oil and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer!
Get the Recipe for Peach, Tomato & Corn Arugula Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 287cal
Carbohydrates: 45.9g
Protein: 8.4g
Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad
Recipe by A Saucy Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 15 mins
Yields ~ 10 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ This Gluten-free and Vegetarian Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad is made with only 10 ingredients and within 25 minutes! Made with chopped walnuts, crumbled feta, and salad greens, it is absolutely delicious, hearty, filling, and extremely satisfying!
Get the Recipe for Balsamic Strawberry Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 302kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 6g
BLT Pasta Salad
Recipe by Carls Bad Cravings
Ready in ~ 20 minutes
Yields ~ 12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ All the good for you ingredients doused in to-live-for bright, tangy, creamy Lemon Chive Dressing.
Get the Recipe for BLT Pasta Salad!
Pesto Pasta Salad
Recipe by Cookie and Kate
Ready in~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 6 to 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ An amazing fusion of classic Italian flavors and refreshing summer ingredients. Perfect for picnics, parties, and quick weeknight dinners!
Get the Recipe for Pesto Pasta Salad!
Tuna Pasta Salad
Recipe by Goodie Goodie Lunch Box
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with tender pasta, flaky tuna, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing, this light yet satisfying dish is perfect for a quick meal or a refreshing side.
Get the Recipe for Tuna Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 131kcal
Carbohydrates: 16.5g
Protein: 6.2g
Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad
Recipe by Healthful Blondie
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love it ~ A high-in-protein, gluten-free, and healthy pasta recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe for Greek Chickpea Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 271 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Recipe by Lemons and Zest
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 10 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Get the Recipe for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 357kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 11g
High Protein Pasta Salad
Recipe by My Plantiful Cooking
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Get the Recipe for High Protein Pasta Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 356kcal
Carbohydrates: 46g
Protein: 23g
And there you have it – easy pasta salad recipes for you to try!
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