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Easy Cold Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer

Easy Cold Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer

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A refreshing, make-ahead cold pasta salad with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy Italian-inspired dressing, perfect for summer gatherings. Packed with fresh flavors and satisfying textures, this salad balances acidity and creaminess effortlessly.

Ingredients

Dried pasta (fusilli, penne, rotini, or farfalle) – 1 pound
Bell pepper, sliced – 1 cup
Zucchini, thinly sliced – 1 medium
Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1/2 cup
Green onions, thinly sliced – 1/3 cup
Pepperoncini or banana peppers, sliced – 5-6 peppers
Mixed olives, halved – 1/4 cup (optional)
Parmesan cheese, grated – 1 cup (4 ounces)
Fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine) – 1 cup (2 ounces)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped – 1 cup (6 ounces)
White balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar – 1/3 cup
Fine sea salt – 1 tablespoon (plus to taste)
Fresh ground black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon (plus to taste)

Instructions

Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon sea salt and 1 pound pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions (about 12 minutes). Drain pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, green onions, pepperoncini, and olives (if using). Toss to combine.
Add grated Parmesan, mozzarella balls, and chopped parsley/basil to the bowl. Gently mix to incorporate all ingredients.
In a small bowl, whisk vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of salt to make the dressing. Toss the dressing with the salad until well coated.
Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Substitute white balsamic or apple cider vinegar to avoid alcohol-based vinegars.
Rinsing pasta with cold water is crucial for maintaining firm texture after chilling.
Adjust the number of peppers based on spice preference (up to 10 for hotter salads).

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