If you’re craving a refreshing, colorful dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture, this Pasta Salad is exactly what you need. It combines perfectly cooked rotini pasta with crisp cucumbers, juicy grape tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in zesty Italian dressing. Whether you’re packing a picnic, bringing something to a potluck, or just want an easy weekday side, this Pasta Salad never fails to spark joy with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make this Pasta Salad come alive, with each element contributing its own unique flavor, crunch, or creaminess. Together, they create a harmony of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for seconds.

16 ounces rotini: Its spiral shape grabs onto the dressing perfectly, making each bite flavorful and fun.
1 medium cucumber, chopped: Adds a cool, crisp freshness that balances the dish beautifully.
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved: Bring bursts of sweetness and vibrant color to every forkful.
1 small bell pepper, chopped: Crunchy and slightly sweet, it adds a lively texture contrast.
¼ cup finely diced red onion: Offers a sharp punch that brightens the overall flavor.
1 cup Italian dressing: Acts as the zesty glue holding all the flavors together; homemade or store-bought works great.
⅔ cup feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and salty, it introduces depth and richness to the salad.
¼ cup sliced black olives: Adds a subtle briny note that complements the fresh vegetables.
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Lifts the dish with its herbaceous, slightly peppery taste.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.

How to Make Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding a generous pinch of salt, which seasons the pasta from the inside out. Cook the rotini following the package instructions until perfectly al dente — tender but with a little bite. Drain and immediately rinse the pasta under cold water; this stops the cooking process and cools it down, which is key for a vibrant, fresh Pasta Salad.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

While the pasta is draining, chop your cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into small, bite-sized pieces. Halve the grape tomatoes to release their sweet juiciness, which melds beautifully with the creamy dressing. Fresh, crisp vegetables add a satisfying crunch and freshness that keeps the salad lively.

Step 3: Combine and toss

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and fresh parsley. Pour your Italian dressing over everything and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together with care so every ingredient is coated, ensuring each bite delivers flavor, texture, and color in harmony.

Step 4: Chill or serve immediately

Your Pasta Salad is ready to enjoy right away if you can’t wait, but chilling it in the fridge for at least an hour lets the flavors meld even more beautifully. This step also keeps it crisp and cool, perfect for warmer days or as a make-ahead dish for gatherings.

How to Serve Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Top your Pasta Salad with a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a few fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or a few cracked pepper flakes can also add a lovely finishing touch before serving.

Side Dishes

Pasta Salad shines alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a spread of fresh bread. It’s also marvelous with barbecued ribs or as part of a vibrant picnic spread featuring fresh fruit and crisp vegetables. Its bright flavors complement many main dishes without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving pasta salad in individual mason jars for a charming, portable option perfect for parties or lunches on the go. You can also stuff it inside bell pepper halves or endive leaves for beautiful edible bowls that add a fun, fresh twist to your presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Pasta Salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it chilled to maintain that refreshing crunch from the vegetables and allow those flavors to deepen with time.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for Pasta Salad because the vegetables and pasta tend to get mushy when thawed, and the dressing can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Instead, just give it a good stir and enjoy it cold right from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect due to its spirals that hold dressing well, you can swap in penne, fusilli, or even shell pasta based on what you have on hand.

Is there a dairy-free way to enjoy this salad?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and you’ll still get a delicious, creamy element from the dressing.

Can I make the Italian dressing from scratch?

Definitely! A simple homemade Italian dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, garlic, herbs, and a touch of mustard will elevate the salad and let you control the ingredients.

How long does Pasta Salad keep its freshness?

If stored properly in the fridge, it stays fresh and tasty for about three days. Beyond that, the vegetables may lose their crispness, so it’s best enjoyed within that timeframe.

Can I add protein to make this a full meal?

For sure! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas work wonderfully mixed right in, turning this Pasta Salad into a satisfying main course.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients balanced with tangy, creamy, and crunchy elements that dance together on your palate. I can’t wait for you to whip it up and discover just how simple and delightful Pasta Salad can be in your own kitchen!