This easy classic pasta salad is colorful and tasty! It mixes cooked pasta, crunchy veggies, and a simple dressing to make a refreshing dish everyone loves.
Perfect for picnics or barbecues, I can’t resist sneaking spoonfuls before serving it! It’s a breeze to make, plus it can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is great for holding onto dressings, but you can use penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if you need. Just ensure you cook it al dente for the best texture!
Chickpeas: These add protein and a nice texture. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap in black beans or kidney beans. You can also leave them out entirely for a lighter salad.
Olives: Kalamata olives give a bold flavor. If you prefer milder flavors, try green olives or leave them out entirely. Your salad will still be tasty!
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess. For a stronger flavor, consider feta cheese. Just make sure to adjust the salt in the dressing if using feta, as it’s saltier.
How Do I Keep the Pasta Salad Fresh?
To keep your pasta salad tasting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best if eaten within 2-3 days. If serving it after a day, consider adding a splash of olive oil or vinegar just before serving to refresh the flavors.
- Cook pasta, cool under cold water, and drain well to avoid sogginess.
- Mix ingredients gently to keep the salad light and fluffy.
- Let it chill in the fridge to allow the flavors to mingle. Always give it a toss before serving!
Easy Classic Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup mixed sweet mini bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or small mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to have your delicious salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente (typically about 8-10 minutes). Once the pasta is cooked, drain it using a colander and then rinse it under cold water. This will cool the pasta down and stop it from cooking further. Set it aside to drain completely.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, sliced mini bell peppers, kalamata olives, pepperoncini peppers, chopped spinach, mozzarella cheese, and diced red onion. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This dressing will add flavor to the salad, combining tangy and savory elements perfectly!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash any of the ingredients!
5. Finish with Cheese and Herbs:
Lastly, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley over the top of the pasta salad. Give it one more gentle toss to mix in the cheese and herbs.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once chilled, serve your pasta salad either cold or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Enjoy your fresh, colorful, and easy classic pasta salad!
FAQs about Easy Classic Pasta Salad
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the dressing, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options. Just ensure you cook it al dente for the best texture!
What Can I Substitute for Chickpeas?
If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, you can easily substitute them with black beans, kidney beans, or even diced cooked chicken for a different protein option. Just adjust the seasoning to match your preference!
How Long Does Leftover Pasta Salad Last?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, so it’s even tastier the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it the day before your event. Just keep it refrigerated and add the cheese and herbs right before serving for the best taste and freshness.
