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Bowl of easy classic pasta salad with vegetables and dressing

Easy Classic Pasta Salad

A comforting pasta salad filled with ripe tomatoes, briny olives, and a tangy dressing, perfect for picnics and potlucks.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, farfalle, or shells) choose whole grain for a healthy option
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved swap with sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced replace with bell pepper if you prefer extra crunch
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced soak in cold water to mellow sharpness
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced capers are a salty substitute
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced provolone feta makes it tangier
  • 1/2 cup Italian parsley, roughly chopped basil is lovely for a brighter note
  • 3/4 cup creamy Italian dressing use Greek yogurt dressing to make it creamy and lighter
Homemade Vinaigrette (optional)
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cool water.
  2. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley.
  3. If making the vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Mixing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and cheese. Toss gently.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Feel free to toss in cooked chicken or chickpeas for protein. Use sturdy pasta shapes for best results.