Pasta salads are a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from backyard barbecues to weekday lunches. In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 cheap and easy pasta salad recipes that are sure to become favorites in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re craving classic flavors or looking to try something new, these recipes are guaranteed to impress your taste buds and satisfy your hunger in no time.
Classic Italian Pasta Salad
Start with cooked pasta, such as rotini or fusilli, and toss it with cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced red onion, cubed mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Dress the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Greek Pasta Salad
Combine cooked penne pasta with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Dress the salad with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for a light and refreshing salad that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Caprese Pasta Salad
For a twist on the classic caprese salad, toss cooked bowtie pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls, chopped fresh basil, and balsamic glaze. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, and serve chilled for a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for picnics and potlucks.
BLT Pasta Salad
Combine cooked macaroni with crispy bacon pieces, chopped lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Dress the salad with a creamy ranch dressing and garnish with chopped green onions for a delicious twist on the classic BLT sandwich that’s perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions, then toss it with diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, sliced kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Dress the salad with a lemony vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Southwest Pasta Salad
Combine cooked rotini pasta with black beans, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, and shredded pepper jack cheese. Dress the salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette made from olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues and potlucks.
Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad
Toss cooked penne pasta with cooked and diced chicken breast, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Dress the salad with a creamy pesto dressing made from basil pesto, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Conclusion
With these seven quick and easy pasta salad recipes, you’ll have plenty of delicious options to choose from when you’re craving a satisfying and flavorful meal in a hurry.
Whether you prefer classic Italian flavors, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients, or bold and zesty combinations, there’s a pasta salad on this list to suit every taste and craving. So grab your ingredients, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy a delicious and fuss-free meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
