There is nothing quite as satisfying as a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful Classic Pasta Salad Recipe to brighten up any meal or gathering. This colorful tri-color rotini pasta salad brings together the perfect blend of crisp vegetables, savory turkey pepperoni, creamy cheese, and tangy vinaigrette that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a potluck, or just a delightful family dinner, this recipe’s balance of textures and bold flavors makes it a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Pasta Salad Recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients, each contributing its own character, texture, or burst of flavor. The tri-color pasta adds a fun pop of color along with the perfect chew, while fresh veggies bring crunch and brightness. The mix of cheeses and pepperoni provides savory richness that ties everything together beautifully.
- 24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta: The spiral shape holds onto the dressing and ingredients beautifully, giving great texture.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy, sweet, and fresh, these little bursts of color brighten every bite.
- 12 ounces sliced turkey pepperoni: Adds a savory, meaty kick; swap with extra vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
- 1 red onion (diced): Sharp and crisp, it provides a wonderful contrast to creamy cheese.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Sweet and crunchy, balancing the rich flavors perfectly.
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese (cubed): Creamy and mild, it melts a little warmth into the salad’s texture.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the dressing.
- 8 ounces olives (sliced): Salty and briny, they bring depth and a Mediterranean flair.
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil: The base for the vinaigrette, providing silkiness and richness.
- 1/2 cup red apple vinegar: Gives the dressing a pleasant tang that brightens the entire salad.
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that layers complexity into the vinaigrette.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds subtle warmth and earthiness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt: Enhances every ingredient’s flavor without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: A mild heat that rounds out the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a hint of spice for those who like a little kick.
How to Make Classic Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, which is critical for keeping the salad fresh and preventing sogginess.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, bring together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced turkey pepperoni, diced red onion, diced green bell pepper, cubed mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced olives. This is where your Classic Pasta Salad Recipe really starts to come alive with its mix of colors and textures blending beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red apple vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until fully combined. This vibrant vinaigrette will coat every ingredient, infusing the salad with layers of herbaceous, tangy, and subtly spicy flavor.
Step 4: Toss and Coat
Pour your homemade vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture and toss everything well until every bite is coated in the delicious dressing. Aim for even coverage so each forkful is perfectly balanced with flavor.
Step 5: Chill to Marry Flavors
Refrigerate the classic pasta salad for at least one hour before serving. This resting time allows all the flavors to mingle and deepen, making it even more irresistible when you dig in.
How to Serve Classic Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving for a vibrant splash of green and an extra herbal note. You might also add a little extra parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to take it over the top. A few lemon wedges on the side add a perfect citrus twist for guests who like a brighter bite.
Side Dishes
This Classic Pasta Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a juicy burger. It’s also a fantastic complement to any picnic spread, alongside crusty bread or fresh fruit salad to keep things light and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or cherry tomato cups at your next event. If you want an elegant buffet option, lay it out in a large glass bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Individual mason jars also make charming single servings for lunches or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Classic Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, but it’s best enjoyed within this time frame for ideal texture and freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this pasta salad because the fresh vegetables and cheese can become watery or change texture when thawed. It’s best to prepare fresh or enjoy leftovers refrigerated.
Reheating
This pasta salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary or suggested. Simply take it out of the fridge a little before serving to allow it to warm slightly, bringing out the vinaigrette’s vibrant notes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While tri-color rotini works perfectly because of its shape and color, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or farfalle to suit your preferences or what’s on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
You can easily make the Classic Pasta Salad Recipe vegetarian by omitting the turkey pepperoni and adding extra vegetables such as cucumbers or roasted red peppers for additional flavor and bite.
How long can this pasta salad sit out at parties?
It’s best to keep the salad chilled and not leave it out for more than two hours to keep it fresh and safe to eat, especially if it contains dairy or meat ingredients.
Can I adjust the vinaigrette to be less oily?
Yes, you can reduce the olive oil slightly and add a touch more vinegar or lemon juice if you prefer a lighter dressing. Just balance to taste while keeping the flavors harmonious.
What can I add to make this pasta salad more filling?
Consider adding protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or beans for extra sustenance, or mix in more hearty vegetables to make it a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and endlessly versatile, this Classic Pasta Salad Recipe should be your go-to. It’s a recipe that’s easy to love and easy to make, perfect for bringing people together around the table. I encourage you to try it out and customize it with your favorite add-ins — it’s a delicious way to brighten any meal!
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Classic Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings and meal prep. Featuring tri-color rotini pasta combined with fresh vegetables, turkey pepperoni, and a tangy Italian vinaigrette, it’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 8 ounces olives (sliced)
Meat and Cheese
- 12 ounces sliced turkey pepperoni (can substitute with more vegetables for vegetarian option)
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Dressing
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil
- 1/2 cup red apple vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced turkey pepperoni, diced red onion, diced green bell pepper, cubed mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced olives. Mix gently to combine.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well emulsified and combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill Salad: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and develop more depth.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the turkey pepperoni and add extra vegetables such as cucumbers or artichoke hearts.
- The salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator for extra flavor development.
- When rinsing the pasta after cooking, make sure to cool it down completely to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust seasoning in the dressing to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor.
