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21 Easy Cold Pasta Salad Recipes

Pasta salads are the perfect go-to dish for any occasion. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and can be served as a side or a main dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing a picnic, or just looking for a quick lunch, these 21 easy cold pasta salad recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Classic Italian Pasta Salad

This simple salad combines cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and mozzarella balls, all dressed in a tangy Italian vinaigrette. It’s fresh, colourful, and bursting with flavour.

2. Pesto Pasta Salad

Toss cooked pasta with your favourite pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts for a creamy and aromatic dish. Add some Parmesan cheese for an extra flair.

3. Mediterranean Orzo Salad

Orzo pasta, capers, bell peppers, red onion, and feta cheese come together in this refreshing salad. Dress with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for an irresistible taste of the Mediterranean.

4. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

This hearty salad features rotisserie chicken, romaine lettuce, croutons, and pasta, all tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing. Perfect for a filling lunch or a light dinner.

5. Greek Pasta Salad

Combine pasta with diced cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, drizzled with a lemon-olive oil dressing for a traditional Greek treat.

6. Tuna Pasta Salad

Mix canned tuna with cooked pasta, sweetcorn, peas, dollops of mayonnaise, and a bit of lemon juice. This dish is not only quick to make but also a great source of protein.

7. Broccoli and Bacon Pasta Salad

Tender broccoli florets and crispy bacon bits mixed with pasta create a crunchy and savory salad. Toss with a creamy dressing to round off the flavours.

8. Caprese Pasta Salad

A twist on the classic Caprese salad, this recipe combines pasta, fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a delightful Italian experience.

9. BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad

Combine shredded barbecue chicken, pasta, corn, and red onion with a barbecue sauce dressing. This dish is a tasty way to incorporate BBQ flavours into your meal.

10. Spinach and Feta Pasta Salad

Wilted spinach, crumbled feta, and cooked pasta create a light and nutritious salad. A lemon-garlic dressing enhances the overall taste beautifully.

11. Asian Sesame Noodle Salad

Cooked spaghetti or noodles tossed with shredded carrots, bell peppers, and a sesame-soy dressing make this vibrant salad both crunchy and delicious. Garnish with sesame seeds for added texture.

12. Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad

Roast your favourite seasonal vegetables, then combine them with pasta and a splash of olive oil. This dish is perfect for making use of vegetables at their peak.

13. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Pasta Salad

For a hearty option, combine wholemeal pasta with roasted sweet potato, black beans, corn, red onion, and a zesty lime dressing. It’s a filling vegetarian choice!

14. Bacon and Pea Pasta Salad

This delicious combination of cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and sweet peas is elevated with a creamy dressing that complements every bite.

15. Zucchini Noodle Salad with Pesto

Swap regular pasta for spiralised zucchini and dress it with homemade pesto, cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts for a light and low-carb option.

16. Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad

Toss pasta with a creamy dressing made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and garlic. Add cherry tomatoes and sweetcorn for a colourful finish.

17. Couscous and Chickpea Salad

Cooked couscous mixed with chickpeas, diced cucumber, and cherry tomatoes creates a refreshing salad that’s high in protein and deliciously light.

18. Shrimp and Avocado Pasta Salad

Juicy cooked shrimp, creamy avocado, and pasta come together with a touch of lime for a tropical twist that’s perfect for summer.

19. Lemon Herb Pasta Salad

Lemon zest and fresh herbs elevate this simple pasta salad, which features cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil for a vibrant dish.

20. Roasted Garlic and Tomato Pasta Salad

Roast garlic and cherry tomatoes until they’re caramelised, then mix with pasta and a drizzle of olive oil for a rich and flavourful salad that’s easy to make.

21. Anitpasto Pasta Salad

For those who love variety, this salad offers a mix of salami, pepperoni, olives, cheese, and roasted peppers along with pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing.

Conclusion

These 21 easy cold pasta salad recipes are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. With these versatile recipes, you’re sure to impress your family and friends!

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