Name: Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz mozzarella cheese, diced into cubes; 6 oz can of sliced black olives, drained; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, chopped; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup Italian dressing; 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon pepper; ½ teaspoon salt

This bright, colorful, and utterly irresistible Italian Pasta Salad is a true superstar for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners. Packed with tender tri-color rotini, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, crisp bell pepper, and zingy Italian dressing, each bite is bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors and a fabulous mix of textures. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a satisfying, make-ahead meal, this Italian Pasta Salad brings a smile to the table every single time!

Italian Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make this salad so wonderfully craveable. Each one brings something special, from pops of color to satisfying crunch or irresistible richness. Gather these simple, familiar staples for a flavor-packed dish that feels like summer in a bowl!

Tri-color rotini pasta: The twists hold onto the dressing perfectly, while the fun colors add a festive visual flair.
Cherry tomatoes, halved: These little bursts of juicy sweetness brighten up every bite.
Mozzarella cheese, cubed: Creamy cubes offer a hearty, satisfying texture and mellow flavor.
Black olives, sliced: Their briny, savory notes bring classic Italian vibes—and a pop of contrast.
Green bell pepper, diced: Crunchy and crisp, they balance out the richness with freshness.
Red onion, chopped: A punch of color and zesty, aromatic bite that livens up the salad.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Bright, herby freshness that ties all the flavors together.
Italian dressing: The zippy, tangy backbone of the salad—use your favorite bottled dressing or homemade!
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs gives this dish signature Mediterranean warmth.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer and making those fresh flavors sing.

How to Make Italian Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a big pot of water and cooking your tri-color rotini according to the package directions. The pasta should be tender but still have a little bite (that perfect al dente texture!). Drain and rinse it under cold water right away to cool it quickly and stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies and Cheese

While your pasta cooks and cools, dice up the mozzarella, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the onion, dice the bell pepper, and chop your fresh parsley. Having everything ready to go makes mixing a breeze—and ensures every bite is bursting with deliciousness!

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a big serving bowl, add your cooled rotini, chopped veggies, cubes of mozzarella, sliced black olives, and fresh parsley. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in that luscious Italian dressing, making sure everything is evenly coated and looking vibrant. Give it all a gentle mix, so nothing gets squished!

Step 4: Let the Flavors Meld

Cover your bowl with a lid or some plastic wrap, then pop it in the fridge for at least two hours. This waiting period is where the magic happens—the Italian Pasta Salad soaks up all the flavors, so it tastes even better when served. If you’re short on time, a quick chill still works, but those extra hours are totally worth it.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Take your salad out of the fridge and give it a little stir. Taste and adjust salt or dressing if needed. Serve up generous scoops, and watch as your friends and family go back for seconds!

How to Serve Italian Pasta Salad

Garnishes

To add a finishing flourish, sprinkle your chilled Italian Pasta Salad with extra chopped fresh parsley, a few grinds of black pepper, or even some grated Parmesan. For an extra-special touch, scatter a handful of halved cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

This hearty salad pairs perfectly with all your summer favorites. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or as a side to a big Italian feast. It also shines with a loaf of crusty garlic bread or a platter of roasted vegetables—the options are endless!

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Italian Pasta Salad the star of the spread by presenting it in a large, colorful bowl or layering it neatly in a clear trifle dish to show off the gorgeous layers. Try spooning it into lettuce cups for a light, portable hors d’oeuvre, or pack it in mason jars for picnics and on-the-go lunches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Italian Pasta Salad stores beautifully in the fridge. Just scoop the salad into an airtight container and keep it chilled for up to four days. If the pasta absorbs some dressing overnight, add a splash more before serving to freshen it up.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Italian Pasta Salad, it’s not recommended—the fresh veggies and cheese can lose their appealing texture after thawing. This dish tastes best when enjoyed fresh from the fridge, straight after chilling or within a few days of making.

Reheating

One of the beauties of pasta salad is that it’s made to be eaten cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary! If you prefer your salad less chilly, simply let it sit out on the counter for 20-30 minutes before eating.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day ahead lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

What other veggies can I add to this salad?

The sky’s the limit—try adding diced cucumber, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or even blanched broccoli for extra crunch and color. It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge!

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Yes! While tri-color rotini adds festivity and holds the dressing well, bow ties, penne, or fusilli work just as perfectly. Just aim for a shape that grabs onto the dressing and mixes easily with other ingredients.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Adding in grilled chicken, sliced salami, or chickpeas turns Italian Pasta Salad into a satisfying meal. You can also offer it with a hearty soup or alongside a cheese platter to round out the meal.

What’s the best Italian dressing to use?

Your favorite bottled dressing totally works, but if you like homemade, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, a sprinkle of dried herbs, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon for a personal touch. Just be sure it’s vibrant and well seasoned!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an easy, flavorful dish that’s as fun to make as it is to enjoy, Italian Pasta Salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Don’t be surprised if it disappears quickly at your next gathering—this vibrant, fresh, and satisfying salad has a way of stealing the show. Give it a try and bring a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your table!