Quick and Easy Pasta Salad Recipe From the Queen of Soul Food Cooking

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Barbara

Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for those vibrant, effortless dishes that make outdoor gatherings feel special. If you’re looking for a recipe that can hold its own at a picnic or at a family barbecue, my Pasta Salad is about to become your new secret recipe. It’s a dish I’ve turned to time and again because it is bursting with both flavor and color.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it fits into a busy schedule. I usually prep it the night before, letting the flavors mingle and develop. When it’s time to head out the door, the work is already done. It is a beautiful centerpiece for any table, and best of all, you don’t need to be a professional chef to get it right. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, I will walk you through how to pull this together. Grab your favorite bowl and join me. Let’s get this summer favorite started.

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How to Make Pasta Salad

One of the things I love about pasta salad is it’s a dish that can be made to your liking. The selection of pasta, the vegetables added, the cheese selection all can create a different salad to suit your taste. For my pasta salad I chose tricolor rotini pasta to establish a vibrant appearance. For my cheese I went with mozzarella because of it’s mild yet distinct flavor. As for the vegetable, I went with a variety of colorful textured veggies that gave me the taste I wanted. Check out my video and written instructions below for details.

Watch My Video Tutorial for Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• Tri-color rotini pasta – These fun, spiral-shaped noodles aren’t just a feast for the eyes. They’re the perfect blank canvas for supporting all the vibrant flavors in our salad.
• Italian dressing – A tangy, herby blend that brings a touch of zest and richness to the party.
• Mozzarella cheese – Soft, milky cubes that add a creamy, comforting element.
• Pepperoni – Bold, spicy rounds that pack a flavorful punch.
• Salami – Savory, slightly salty slices that bring a depth of flavor.
• English cucumber – Crisp, refreshing bites that offer a cool contrast to the richer ingredients.
• Red onion – Sharp, pungent slivers that add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
• Yellow bell pepper – Sweet, juicy chunks that burst with sharp flavor.
• Green bell pepper – Bright notes that offer a refreshing counterpoint.
• Fresh parsley – Earthy, herbaceous sprigs that add a pop of color and freshness.
• Black olives – Briny, salty jewels that bring a touch of sophistication.
• Pimento peppers – Sweet, tangy surprises that add a subtle heat.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy, sweet bursts of summer charm.

Feel free to add veggies to suit your palate. The key to a great pasta salad is to use fresh ingredients so pick as many as you like. Also if you require additional seasoning feel free to explore!

What You Will Need

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Using a sharp knife, prep the fresh veggies by dicing the cucumber, onion, and bell peppers. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, chop the parsley and cube the mozzarella cheese. Set everything aside until you are ready to assemble your salad.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

To cook the pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini and cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. After the pasta is ready, turn off the heat then drain. Set the pasta aside to cool for 10 minutes before proceeding.

Step 2: Assembling the Pasta Salad

Now is the fun part, assembling this colorful masterpiece. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes and the english cucumber.

Next add the onions, yellow bell pepper, green bell pepper and olives.

Now add the pimentos and parsley.

Finally, add the pepperoni, salami, and mozzarella cheese. You should have a mound of color.

Step 4: Add the Dressing:

Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and mix well until everything is coated.

This pasta salad is so quick and easy to make and absolutely delicious. It’s a refreshing treat for any occasion and any day of the week. Try it!

What to Eat With Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is undoubtedly a summertime staple. Because it is so versatile, it pairs well with a variety of foods across different categories.

For main dishes, grilled meats like hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken are classic accompaniments. The smoky flavors complement the tangy, Italian dressing of the pasta salad. For a lighter option, consider pairing your pasta salad with fish, such salmon or shrimp. The freshness of the fish contrasts beautifully with the heartiness of the pasta. If you prefer vegetarian options, veggie burgers, black bean burgers, or tofu skewers can provide a satisfying protein component.

To round out the meal, consider adding some side dishes. A simple chicken salad offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta salad. For a more substantial side, baked beans, coleslaw, or potato salad provide additional textures and flavors. Fruit salad, with its sweetness and acidity, can also complement the savory notes of the pasta salad.

Ultimately, the best pairings depend on your personal preferences and yor specific ingredients used. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find combinations that you enjoy.

What to Do With Leftovers

To maintain the best quality of your pasta salad, store it properly in the refrigerator. First, ensure it has cooled completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent the pasta from drying out and absorbing unwanted flavors from the fridge. For optimal freshness, consume the pasta salad within 2-3 days.

Leftover pasta salad can be transformed into a whole new meal or snack. It can be added to wraps or sandwiches. However you choose to enjoy it you won’t be disappointed.

Other Great Recipes

• Black Bean Salad – a healthy and refreshing salad that is great as a side dish or alone.
• Chicken Salad – easy to make and so, so delicious.
• Greek Salad – a tasty salad with rich flavor and texture.
• Macaroni Salad – a summertime classic that is great for all occasions.
• Deviled Eggs – make the perfect side dish or hors d’oeuvre.

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