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Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

4.9 from 80 reviews

A refreshing and easy-to-make Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad, perfect for summer picnics and casual meals. This dish combines cooked pasta with crisp vegetables, tossed in a flavorful olive oil and Italian seasoning dressing for a light and satisfying salad.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups dry pasta (rotini or penne)

Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Drain thoroughly.
  2. Prepare vegetables: While pasta cooks, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and black olives.
  3. Toss ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and chopped vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use any short pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle.
  • For added flavor, include fresh basil or parsley.
  • Optional: add some crumbled feta cheese or pepperoncini for extra taste.
  • This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: vegetarian pasta salad, Italian pasta salad, cold pasta salad, summer salad, easy pasta salad