This Easy Classic Pasta Salad is a colorful dish with pasta, fresh veggies, and a tasty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches!
I love how you can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge—great for those who meal prep like me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape holds the dressing well, but feel free to swap it with penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. If you’re gluten-free, brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta works great!
Chickpeas: These add protein and a nice texture. If you want a lighter version, swap them for diced cucumber or artichoke hearts. I’ve also used black beans, which give a different flavor but are delicious.
Cheese: I adore the creamy mozzarella in this salad. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese or simply skip it and add a handful of nuts for crunch.
Veggies: The bell peppers and spinach are flexible! Use whatever veggies you have, like zucchini, carrots, or even arugula. Customize based on your taste preferences!
Dressing: The red wine vinegar brings a nice tang, but balsamic vinegar or lemon juice can be refreshing alternatives. If you like it spicy, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Is Flavorful?
Getting the flavors right in your pasta salad is key! Here’s how you can ensure it’s packed with taste:
- **Seasoning:** Be generous with salt and pepper when cooking pasta. This adds flavor right from the start.
- **Marinating Time:** Letting the salad chill for at least an hour allows the dressing to soak into the pasta and veggies. If you can, prepare it the night before for even better flavor!
- **Tasting and Adjusting:** Before serving, always taste and adjust the seasoning. A splash more vinegar or sprinkle of salt may make all the difference.
- **Fresh Herbs:** Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances all the flavors.
Easy Classic Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, orange)
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least an hour to chill in the fridge. Don’t skip the chilling part, as it helps all the flavors come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Veggies and Cheese:
Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, chopped bell peppers, baby spinach, Kalamata olives, pepperoncini, cubed mozzarella, and finely chopped red onion into the bowl with the pasta. Give it a gentle mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing is what brings all the flavors to life!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture, then toss everything gently to combine it thoroughly. Make sure that all the pasta and vegetables are coated with the delicious dressing.
5. Add Cheese and Chill:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and toss again lightly to incorporate the cheese into the salad. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Final Touches Before Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad another toss to refresh it. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want, garnish your salad with fresh chopped parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor and color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
This pasta salad is delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Easy Classic Pasta Salad!
FAQ About Easy Classic Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the dressing, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options like brown rice or quinoa pasta.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some dressing may settle at the bottom.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make the pasta salad vegan, simply omit the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese or substitute them with dairy-free cheese alternatives. You won’t miss out on flavor!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
The beauty of pasta salad is its versatility! Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, such as cucumbers, zucchini, carrots, or even roasted vegetables for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that crunchy veggies work best!
