Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 flavorful and unique pasta salad recipes! Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, Asian-inspired dishes, or classic Italian combinations, we’ve got you covered. From tangy and zesty to creamy and cheesy, each recipe is carefully crafted to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, featuring an incredible array of pasta salads that are sure to become new favorites. With a focus on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and creative twists, these recipes are perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or just a quick and easy dinner.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of 20 unique pasta salad recipes…
Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the creamy richness of feta cheese and the savory bite of olives. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cooked orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, crumbled feta, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.
3. Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Asian Sesame Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of sesame noodles with the richness of peanut dressing, perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. rice noodles
– 2 tbsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. soy sauce
– 1 tsp. honey
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add chopped peanuts and mix until coated with the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, peanut mixture, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing summer pasta salad combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss gently to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon-Herb Dressing
This refreshing Greek-inspired pasta salad combines tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all tied together with a zesty lemon-herb dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Southwest Pasta Salad with Chipotle Lime Dressing
This flavorful pasta salad combines the warmth of chipotle peppers with the brightness of lime, creating a unique and addictive Southwest-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, black beans, bell peppers, tomatoes, cilantro, and queso fresco.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, lime juice, and olive oil to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. The creamy pesto sauce brings all the ingredients together in harmony.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 tbsp. freshly made pesto sauce (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, and pesto sauce.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with Blue Cheese
This spicy and savory pasta salad combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken, crumbled blue cheese, and crunchy vegetables for a delicious twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp. ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well.
3. Add the crumbled blue cheese and mix until combined.
4. Combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices in a separate bowl.
5. Add the pasta to the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
6. Add the buffalo chicken mixture on top of the pasta and vegetables; toss gently to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad with Crispy Tofu
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the crunch of crispy tofu, all on a bed of nutty noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry tofu until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
4. Toss cooked noodles with peanut sauce and top with crispy tofu, chopped peanuts, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with scallions and cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad with Pesto
A flavorful and nutritious pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines roasted vegetables, whole wheat pasta, and a tangy pesto sauce for a deliciously healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the bell pepper, zucchini, and yellow squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and pesto sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Lime Pasta Salad with Black Beans
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of avocado, the brightness of lime juice, and the earthiness of black beans for a flavorful and nutritious side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced avocado, black beans, lime juice, and cilantro.
3. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad with Cheddar Cheese
A creamy and savory pasta salad that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the dressing and bacon.
3. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture and toss until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well combined.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines succulent shrimp with spicy sriracha sauce, mixed pasta, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 8 oz. pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat sriracha sauce over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and cilantro.
4. Add cooked shrimp to the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kale and Quinoa Pasta Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines nutty quinoa pasta with tender kale, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy lemon tahini dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz quinoa pasta
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup lemon tahini dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine kale, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon tahini dressing ingredients until smooth.
4. Toss cooked quinoa pasta with kale mixture, then drizzle with lemon tahini dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Goat Cheese Pasta Salad with Walnuts
A sweet and earthy twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy walnut shell.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted beets, goat cheese crumbles, parsley, and walnuts.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Curry Chickpea Pasta Salad with Mango Chutney
Experience the perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors and Mediterranean pasta salad in this unique and refreshing recipe. This Curry Chickpea Pasta Salad with Mango Chutney is a flavorful twist on traditional pasta salads.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp. curry powder
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– 1/4 cup mango chutney
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chickpeas, mango chutney, and cilantro to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the curry-chickpea mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad with Creamy Cheese Sauce
This Jalapeño Popper Pasta Salad with Creamy Cheese Sauce is a unique and delicious twist on traditional pasta salad. The combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful pasta will become your new go-to summer side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy cheese sauce and toss to coat.
5. Add the chopped vegetable mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sunflower Seed and Cranberry Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds with the sweetness of cranberries, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sunflower seeds, cranberries, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
4. Add the dressing to the seed mixture and toss to coat.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the seed mixture and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Pasta Salad
Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Pasta Salad Recipe
This hearty pasta salad combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for a satisfying side dish or light lunch. Perfect for potlucks or picnics!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast garlic cloves for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted garlic, olive oil, parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Stir in white wine vinegar.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Pasta Salad with Apricots
This vibrant salad combines the warmth of Moroccan spices with the sweetness of apricots and the comfort of pasta, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, apricots, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cucumber Dill Pasta Salad with Yogurt Dressing
This light and zesty pasta salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick lunch. The combination of cucumber, dill, and yogurt dressing creates a refreshing flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, chopped fresh dill, and cooked pasta.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the yogurt dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your pasta salads to the next level with these 20 unique and flavorful recipes! From Mediterranean-inspired dishes like Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives, to spicy options like Spicy Sriracha Shrimp Pasta Salad, there’s something for every taste. Other highlights include Pesto Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with Blue Cheese, and Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad with Pesto. With a range of ingredients and flavor combinations, you’ll find the perfect recipe to add some excitement to your meal routine.
