15 Italian Vinaigrette Pasta Salad Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Pasta salad is a staple dish for summer gatherings and potlucks. It's easy to make, versatile, and can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side. One of the most flavorful and popular variations of pasta salad is the Italian vinaigrette pasta salad. This recipe combines the freshness of vegetables, the heartiness of pasta, and the tanginess of Italian dressing to create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to be a hit at any occasion. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this Italian vinaigrette pasta salad recipe is simple and quick to make, making it the perfect addition to your recipe collection.
Main Ingredients: Dreamfields Rotini, Bacon, Cherry Tomatoes, Shredded
This hearty and delicious pasta salad is a twist on the classic BLT sandwich. It's packed with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce, all tossed together with al dente pasta and a tangy Italian dressing. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a crowd-pleaser at any summer barbecue or potluck. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it the perfect addition to your meal planning rotation.
If you're in the mood for a classic Italian pasta salad, look no further. This recipe features all the traditional elements, including pasta, olives, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can be served as a side or as a light lunch on its own. The best part? It's ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.
If you like a little kick in your pasta salad, this zesty Italian version is for you. The addition of spicy pepperoni, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and a bit of red pepper flakes gives this dish a bold flavor that's sure to wake up your taste buds. Tossed with tender pasta and a homemade Italian dressing, this salad is a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Short on time but still want to impress your guests? This easy Italian pasta salad is the answer. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including your favorite pasta, Italian dressing, and fresh veggies, this dish is a breeze to put together. You can even add in some protein, like chicken or shrimp, to make it a more substantial meal. It's versatile, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
5of 20
Colorful Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Broccoli Slaw, Red Cabbage, Cherry Tomatoes
If you're looking for a pasta salad that's as pretty as it is tasty, try this colorful version with Italian dressing. The combination of spiral pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives creates a vibrant dish that's sure to catch everyone's eye. And with a simple homemade Italian dressing, it's a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings that are often loaded with preservatives and additives.
If you haven't tried orzo pasta before, this Italian orzo salad is the perfect introduction. The small, rice-shaped pasta is tossed with a delicious blend of Italian flavors, including sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and fresh herbs. It's a unique and tasty addition to any summer meal, and it's also a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge.
7of 20
Lemon Basil Farfalle Salad An Italian Pasta Dish...
Main Ingredients: Farfalle Pasta, Grape Tomatoes, Purple Onion, Sliced
This lemon basil farfalle salad is a light and refreshing take on classic Italian pasta salad. The vibrant flavors of lemon and basil give this dish a bright and summery taste, while the addition of farfalle pasta adds a fun and unique twist. Serve this salad alongside some grilled chicken or fish for a healthy and satisfying meal.
8of 20
Autumn Pasta Salad with Basil Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Fresh Green Beans, Butternut Squash, Olive Oil
Pasta salad doesn't have to be just a summer dish. This autumn pasta salad is loaded with seasonal ingredients like butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries, all tossed together with a flavorful basil vinaigrette. It's a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, or a delicious lunch option during the colder months.
9of 20
Asparagus Pasta Salad with Lemon Balm Vinaigrette
Main Ingredients: Asparagus, Pasta, Crumbled Feta, Bacon Bits, Vinaigrette
Get your green on with this asparagus pasta salad with lemon balm vinaigrette. The tender asparagus adds a satisfying crunch to this dish, while the bright and tangy lemon balm dressing brings all the flavors together. It's a light and healthy option that's perfect for springtime gatherings or as a side dish for your summer barbecues.
10of 20
Easy Vegan Italian Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Cherry Tomatoes, Roasted Red Peppers, Marinated
Looking for a vegan pasta salad option? This easy vegan Italian pasta salad has got you covered. It's loaded with colorful veggies, like bell peppers, tomatoes, and olives, and tossed with a homemade vegan Italian dressing. You won't even miss the cheese in this dish, it's that flavorful and satisfying.
11of 20
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, Sliced Kalamata
If you're a fan of Mediterranean flavors, you'll love this pasta salad. It's packed with all the classic ingredients, like feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers, and dressed with a simple mixture of olive oil and lemon juice. It's a delicious and healthy option for your next summer gathering or as a light lunch during the week.
If you're craving a more traditional Italian pasta salad, this recipe has got you covered. It features all the classic ingredients, including pasta, salami, cheese, and veggies, all tossed in a tangy dressing. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any time you're in the mood for some delicious Italian flavors.
13of 20
Rainbow Antipasto Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Dry Pasta, Kale, Red Onion, Vinaigrette
This rainbow antipasto pasta salad is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. With a variety of colorful veggies, like bell peppers, grape tomatoes, and artichoke hearts, it's a dish that's sure to impress. And with a tangy balsamic dressing, it's a flavorful and healthy option for any occasion.
14of 20
Cobb Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Vinaigrette, Finely Diced Red Onion, Grape
Take your love for Cobb salad to the next level with this delicious Cobb pasta salad. It's packed with all the classic ingredients, like bacon, chicken, avocado, and blue cheese, all tossed together with tender pasta and a creamy dressing. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a summer cookout or a weeknight dinner.
15of 20
Southwest Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Chopped Bell Peppers, Corn Kernels, Black Beans
If you're a fan of Mexican flavors, this Southwest pasta salad is a must-try. It features all the classic ingredients of a southwest-style dish, like black beans, corn, and avocado, all tossed together with pasta and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing. It's a perfect side dish for your next taco night or as a light lunch on its own.
16of 20
Pizza Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Mozzarella, Roma Tomatoes, Pizza Toppings
Combine two of your favorite dishes, pizza, and pasta, into one delicious and easy-to-make dish with this pizza pasta salad. It's loaded with all your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers, and tossed in a simple Italian dressing. Serve it warm or cold, it's delicious either way.
If you're looking for a heartier pasta salad option, try this Italian chopped salad. It's packed with all the classic Italian flavors, including salami, cheese, and olives, along with plenty of fresh veggies. The chopped pasta adds a unique twist to the dish, making it a stand-out option for any gathering.
18of 20
Greek-Flavored Pasta Salad
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Ripe Tomatoes, Green Bell Pepper, Medium Red
This Greek-flavored pasta salad is a light and refreshing option for any occasion. With ingredients like cucumber, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, it's bursting with Mediterranean flavors and tossed in a simple homemade dressing. It's a perfect side dish for a summer barbecue or as a light lunch during the week.
19of 20
Pasta Salad with Black-Eyed Peas and Corn
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Black Eyed Peas, Corn Kernels, Snow Peas, Celery
Get your protein fix with this pasta salad that features black-eyed peas and corn. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish, including tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing, is sure to please your taste buds. It's a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights and a delicious addition to any potluck or picnic.
20of 20
Red Lentil Pasta Salad with a Mediterranean Twist
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Artichoke Hearts, Olives, Sun Dried Tomatoes
If you're looking for a healthier pasta salad option, try this red lentil pasta salad with a Mediterranean twist. Made with red lentil pasta, this dish is packed with protein and fiber, along with plenty of fresh veggies and a tangy dressing. It's a unique and tasty alternative to traditional pasta salad that's sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
Pasta
The star of this dish is the pasta. You can use any type of pasta you like, but for this recipe, we recommend using penne or fusilli as they hold the dressing well and provide a nice texture. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Vegetables
This pasta salad is loaded with fresh and colorful vegetables, making it a healthy and nutritious dish. Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, and cucumbers add a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad. You can also add other vegetables such as olives, artichokes, or roasted vegetables to make it your own.
Italian Dressing
The key to a delicious Italian vinaigrette pasta salad is the dressing. You can either use a store-bought Italian dressing or make your own using olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and Italian herbs. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined and adjust the flavors according to your taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the dressing until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine the Pasta and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables. Add the dressing and toss gently until everything is coated. You can reserve some dressing to add later if needed.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Before serving, give it a quick toss and add more dressing if needed. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
This Italian vinaigrette pasta salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. It's a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized to your liking. Make sure to make a big batch as it will be gone before you know it. Serve it as a side dish or add some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a complete meal. This summer, impress your friends and family with this easy and tasty Italian vinaigrette pasta salad recipe.