Nora
This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is the ultimate side dish for any occasion. Packed with vibrant vegetables, tender rotini pasta, and tangy Italian dressing, it brings refreshing flavors to your table. It’s perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or even as a quick lunch.
The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese makes every bite a burst of flavor. Tossed with a zesty Italian dressing, it’s light yet satisfying—a dish everyone will keep coming back for.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
- Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for days.
- Versatile: serve it as a side, light main dish, or picnic favorite.
- Customizable with your choice of veggies, cheese, or even protein.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing?
Rotini is a favorite because its spiral shape holds onto the dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. However, you can also use penne, bowtie (farfalle), or even macaroni. Choose a pasta that holds its shape well after cooking and chilling.
Ingredients for the Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Each ingredient in this pasta salad plays an important role in creating its fresh, zesty flavor:
- Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape captures dressing and seasonings perfectly.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds juicy sweetness and bright color.
- Cucumber – Brings a refreshing crunch to balance the pasta.
- Red Onion – Adds a sharp bite that complements the creamy cheese.
- Feta Cheese – Creamy and slightly tangy, it pairs perfectly with Italian flavors.
- Kalamata Olives – Provides briny, salty depth.
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the salad with fresh herbal notes.
- Italian Dressing – The zesty, tangy dressing ties everything together.
How To Make the Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, chop the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the fresh parsley.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta.
Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serving and Storing Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This pasta salad serves 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family dinners, picnics, or potlucks. Serve it chilled for the best flavor, and give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, simply add a splash of extra Italian dressing before serving.
What to Serve With Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing?
Grilled Chicken
The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy Italian dressing.
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a comforting, hearty side.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
The light, fresh shrimp complement the Mediterranean flavors.
Roasted Vegetables
A side of oven-roasted veggies enhances the salad’s wholesome vibe.
Caprese Salad
Double up on fresh Italian flavors with juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Their savory, cheesy filling works perfectly with this refreshing pasta dish.
Classic Caesar Salad
A creamy Caesar salad adds a different texture and flavor contrast.
Lemon Herb Salmon
The bright citrusy salmon ties in perfectly with the fresh herbs in the pasta.
Want More Salad Ideas?
If you love this Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing, you might enjoy these other refreshing salad recipes:
• Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad with Lemon and Herbs – Creamy, protein-packed, and full of zesty herbs.
• Italian Grinder Salad – A Bold and Flavorful Twist on a Classic – A deli-inspired salad loaded with flavor.
• Easy Veggie Patties – A Crispy, Flavorful Delight – Perfect as a light main or side.
• The Ultimate Cowboy Caviar Recipe – A colorful bean and corn salad with a tangy kick.
• Healthier Waldorf Salad – A lighter take on the classic creamy fruit and nut salad.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra cheese or switch up the dressing? Maybe you tossed in grilled chicken or shrimp?
I love seeing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s inspire each other to cook smarter and tastier!
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Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 450 g rotini pasta
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 0.5 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 0.75 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 0.5 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Slice tomatoes, chop cucumber, slice onion, and chop parsley.
- Combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.