Summer is here, and it’s time to refresh our palates with light, easy-to-make, and utterly delicious pasta salads! Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch or a host planning a backyard BBQ, these 20 mouthwatering summer pasta salad recipes are sure to delight. From classic Caprese to innovative flavor combinations like Spicy Sriracha Shrimp, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In the coming pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the globe, exploring international flavors and regional twists on traditional favorites. With ingredients as simple as cherry tomatoes and fresh basil to more exotic elements like peanut dressing and sriracha sauce, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their summer menu.
So grab your fork, and let’s dig in! In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the season’s best pasta salads. Which one will you try first?
Lemon Garlic Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Lemon Garlic Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
A refreshing summer salad that combines the brightness of lemon and garlic with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all tied together with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the dressing.
4. Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Basil
Elevate your pasta salad game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, creaminess of mozzarella, and brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again to combine.
4. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Orzo Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Greece with a light and airy orzo pasta, crumbled feta cheese, and savory olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked orzo pasta, olives, feta cheese, and lemon juice to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado and Corn Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a flavorful package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 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 bowl, combine diced avocado and corn kernels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over the avocado-corn mixture and toss gently.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the avocado-corn mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, packed with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 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 or basil leaves for garnish
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, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this pesto pasta salad is elevated by the addition of roasted vegetables. The creamy pesto sauce and tangy feta cheese add depth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup bell peppers, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and pesto sauce. Toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using) on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southwest Pasta Salad with Black Beans and Cilantro
Southwest Pasta Salad with Black Beans and Cilantro: A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the bold flavors of the Southwest with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– 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 black beans, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and queso fresco.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and ground cumin. Pour over the bean mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian Sesame Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of sesame noodles with a creamy peanut dressing, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With its blend of Asian-inspired flavors, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or tofu
– Peanut dressing ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
+ 2 tbsp soy sauce
+ 2 tbsp rice vinegar
+ 1 tsp honey
+ 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add chopped scallions, mixed vegetables, and cooked chicken or tofu to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut dressing ingredients until smooth.
5. Pour peanut dressing over noodle mixture and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Strawberry Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines sweet strawberries with savory spinach and tangy feta cheese, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 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 spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (cooking time for pasta)
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines tender chicken, sweet balsamic glaze, and crunchy vegetables for a delightful summer side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Grill or bake chicken breast until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top; toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cucumber and Dill Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the coolness of cucumber with the brightness of dill, all tossed with al dente pasta and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, chopped dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the cucumber-dill mixture.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese to create a light and satisfying meal or side dish. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and cooked pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Bacon Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the simplicity of cooked pasta with the bold flavors of broccoli, bacon, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 head broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, and crumbled bacon.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to coat.
6. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad with Salami
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with a zesty twist, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. With the addition of salami, this salad is elevated to a new level of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 6 oz. salami, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– 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, cucumber, red onion, salami, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Pasta Salad
This flavorful pasta salad combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the earthiness of artichokes, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to combine, then top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuna Pasta Salad with Lemon Dijon Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This tuna pasta salad combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the tanginess of lemon dijon dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp lemon dijon dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lemon dijon dressing.
4. Add the dressing mixture to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the salad and toss until coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peach and Prosciutto Pasta Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of peaches with the salty flavor of prosciutto, all on a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 diced peaches, prosciutto slices, mint leaves, and feta cheese.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Pasta Salad with Shrimp
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the bold flavors of sriracha sauce with succulent shrimp and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce and olive oil.
3. Add cooked shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and chopped cilantro to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Add cooled pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the bright flavors of fresh herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine goat cheese crumbles, parsley, chives, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the herbed goat cheese mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using cherry tomatoes, add them now and toss gently.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Rainbow Veggie Pasta Salad with Honey Mustard
Brighten up your lunch or dinner with this vibrant and flavorful pasta salad, packed with a medley of colorful vegetables and a tangy honey mustard dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bow-tie)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced yellow bell peppers
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. honey mustard dressing (see below)
– 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, red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, and carrots.
3. Drizzle honey mustard dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Honey Mustard Dressing:
– 2 tbsp. mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp. honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Cooking Time: None, as the pasta is cooked beforehand.
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing and easy pasta salad recipes! From classic Caprese to zesty Italian, our collection of 20 summer pasta salads has something for everyone. Try a Mediterranean twist with sun-dried tomatoes and feta, or go tropical with avocado and corn. For a savory option, try roasted red pepper and artichoke or spicy sriracha shrimp. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to delight. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick lunch, our summer pasta salads are the perfect way to stay cool and refreshed all season long.
