Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a delicious pasta salad. Not only are they easy to make and can feed a large crowd, but they can also be made with an array of vibrant ingredients to create an array of flavors and textures. Whether you're looking for something to bring to a potluck or to enjoy at home, you can't go wrong with one of these easy summer pasta salad recipes.
Italian-Style Pasta Salad
This Italian-style pasta salad is a classic crowd-pleaser. With the combination of Italian dressing and vegetables, it's a great way to add a bit of flavor to any summer gathering. To make it, you'll need 1 pound of cooked and cooled pasta, 1 cup of chopped red onions, 1 cup of chopped green bell peppers, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup of black olives, 1/4 cup of Italian dressing, and salt and pepper to taste. Once you have the ingredients, all you have to do is combine them in a large bowl, season to taste, and chill before serving. This pasta salad is great served with fresh crusty bread or as a side to grilled chicken or fish.
Greek-Style Pasta Salad
If you're looking for something a bit more exotic, try this Greek-style pasta salad. To make it, you'll need 1 pound of cooked and cooled pasta, 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped red onions, 1/2 cup of pitted Kalamata olives, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Once you have all the ingredients, simply combine them in a large bowl, season to taste, and chill before serving. This salad is great served with grilled fish or shrimp.
Mexican-Style Pasta Salad
If you're looking for a bit of a spicy kick, this Mexican-style pasta salad is the perfect option. To make it, you'll need 1 pound of cooked and cooled pasta, 1 cup of chopped tomatoes, 1/2 cup of black beans, 1/2 cup of corn kernels, 1/2 cup of chopped red onions, 1/4 cup of lime juice, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Once you have all the ingredients, combine them in a large bowl, season to taste, and chill before serving. This salad is great served with grilled steak or tacos.
Asian-Style Pasta Salad
This Asian-style pasta salad is a great way to add a bit of flavor to your summer menu. To make it, you'll need 1 pound of cooked and cooled pasta, 1 cup of chopped red bell peppers, 1 cup of edamame, 1/2 cup of sliced water chestnuts, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Once you have all the ingredients, combine them in a large bowl, season to taste, and chill before serving. This salad is great served with grilled chicken or fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pasta for pasta salad?
The best type of pasta for pasta salad is a short-cut pasta such as shells, rotini, or penne. These types of pasta hold up well to dressings and do not get soggy when chilled.
How do I keep my pasta salad from getting soggy?
To keep your pasta salad from getting soggy, make sure to cool your pasta completely before adding the dressing. Additionally, you can add a bit of olive oil to your pasta water to help keep the pasta from sticking together.
How can I make my pasta salad more flavorful?
To make your pasta salad more flavorful, add in fresh herbs such as parsley or basil, as well as fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, onions, or olives. You can also add in some crumbled feta cheese or grated parmesan cheese for a bit of extra flavor.
How long will pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
Pasta salad will usually last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and to consume it within that time frame.
Can I freeze pasta salad?
Unfortunately, pasta salad does not freeze well. The pasta will become mushy and the dressing will separate. It is best to make and eat your pasta salad within 5 days.
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