As the temperature rises, our appetites often shift towards lighter, refreshing dishes that are perfect for hot summer days. One such dish that fits the bill is a classic tri-colored pasta salad. The combination of red, white, and green pasta with flavorful ingredients like vegetables, cheese, and herbs makes for a satisfying and cooling meal or snack.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different tri-colored pasta salad recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic Italian-inspired dishes to spicy and savory options, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for your next barbecue, or just a healthy snack to get you through the day, these tri-colored pasta salads are sure to hit the spot.
Classic Italian Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. This classic recipe combines the colors of Italy – red, white, and green – in a deliciously simple dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking pasta)
Mediterranean Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Feta
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the colors of the Mediterranean with the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, yellow, green)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Zesty Lemon Herb Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your pasta salad with this refreshing recipe that combines tri-colored pasta, zesty lemon dressing, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bow tie, penne, and elbow)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, basil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Add some vibrant color and creamy richness to your pasta salad with this delicious recipe! This tri-colored pasta salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion, packed with the goodness of avocados and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-color pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tri-color pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the avocado mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Inspired Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Greek-inspired tri colored pasta salad combines the colors of red, orange, and yellow to create a visually appealing dish that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri colored pasta (red, orange, and yellow)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Southwest Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine with a tri-colored pasta twist.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lime juice
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, red bell pepper, yellow onion, and chopped jalapeño.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
4. Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A flavorful and colorful pasta salad that combines the best of Italian-inspired flavors with a Mediterranean twist. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (red, white, green)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, garlic-infused oil, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A colorful twist on the classic Caprese salad, this tri-colored pasta dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side to accompany your favorite entrees.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with chopped basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A colorful and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, and feta cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta into the salad and combine until well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and colorful tri-colored pasta for a refreshing and flavorful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil leaves, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the tomato-basil mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Ranch Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, spicy, and colorful salad! A perfect combination of flavors and textures to satisfy any palate.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and Frank’s RedHot sauce.
3. Add cooked pasta, shredded cheese, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Asian Sesame Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Asia with a colorful twist on traditional pasta salads. With its mix of tri-colored pasta, crunchy vegetables, and nutty sesame dressing, this dish is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add the mixed veggies and cooked pasta to the bowl; toss to coat with the dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto and Mozzarella Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with a colorful twist. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tri-colored pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
3. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the pesto sauce.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil on top of the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon Ranch Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This creamy pasta salad combines the flavors of crispy bacon, tangy ranch dressing, and vibrant tri-colored pasta for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the bacon-ranch mixture.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
Spinach and Artichoke Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch. This Spinach and Artichoke Tri-Colored Pasta Salad combines the creaminess of artichokes with the earthy taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a colorful medley of tri-colored pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped artichoke hearts, and fresh spinach leaves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture; toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes cooking pasta)
Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Tomato Cucumber Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A refreshing and healthy pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (such as bow-tie, penne, and fusilli)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and dried basil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the tomato-cucumber mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the simplicity of tri-colored pasta, creating a delightful and refreshing side dish or light lunch. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the pepper mixture.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped parsley (if desired).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A playful twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of pepperoni pizza with a colorful medley of tri-colored pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and garlic powder. Pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing tri-colored pasta salad recipes! From classic Italian to spicy Southwest, and from creamy avocado to zesty lemon herb, there’s something for everyone. Try Mediterranean-inspired salads with feta and olives or Greek-style ones with tangy yogurt dressing. Indulge in caprese-style salads with fresh mozzarella and basil or go bold with buffalo ranch and crispy bacon. With 18 unique recipes, you’ll never get bored of pasta salad again! Whether you’re packing a lunch or hosting a backyard BBQ, these tri-colored treats are sure to please.
