Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Sweet and Tangy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe Everyone Will LovePerfect for BBQs, Potlucks, or a Quick Weeknight Side Dish

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple, colorful, and bursting with flavor, this Sweet and Tangy Italian Pasta Salad is the one. This recipe brings together the crispness of fresh veggies, the richness of cheese, the comfort of pasta, and a sweet twist on zesty Italian dressing that ties it all together beautifully. Whether you’re prepping for a backyard BBQ, packing a picnic, or just want something refreshing and hearty to keep in the fridge, this is a staple you’ll find yourself making again and again.

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Ingredients

  • 1 box (16 oz) rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 3/4 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups sweet Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade – recipe below)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For Homemade Sweet Italian Dressing (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk all ingredients together until well combined. Adjust sweetness to your preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutesCook Time: 10 minutesTotal Time: 25 minutesServing Size: Serves 8

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. Chop and Prep
    While the pasta cooks, chop your veggies, cheese, and optional pepperoni. Toss everything into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Mix It All Together
    Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of veggies. Pour in your sweet Italian dressing and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Season and Chill
    Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
  5. Serve
    Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Give it one more stir and enjoy.

Tips for the Best Pasta Salad Ever

  • Don’t skip the cold rinse on the pasta. This stops the cooking and keeps it from going mushy in the salad.
  • Let it chill. Seriously, don’t rush it. That hour in the fridge helps everything marinate and soak up the flavor.
  • Use a short pasta with ridges. Rotini is ideal because it traps the dressing in all its spirals, but penne or farfalle work too.
  • Balance is key. Sweet dressing, crunchy veggies, creamy cheese, and salty olives all work together. If it tastes too sweet, a splash of lemon juice helps.

Recipe Variations

Want to make it your own? Here are a few fun spins:

  • Vegan Version: Skip the cheese and pepperoni, and add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
  • Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your dressing is GF-friendly.
  • Spicy Kick: Add banana peppers or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing.
  • Greek Twist: Swap Italian dressing for Greek, and use feta instead of mozzarella. Toss in some kalamata olives.
  • Add Greens: Stir in a handful of arugula or spinach right before serving for extra freshness.
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Related Post: Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Just give it a quick stir before serving and add a splash more dressing if it looks dry.

How long does pasta salad last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container and it’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Can I use bottled dressing?
Absolutely. Use your favorite sweet Italian dressing. Just check the ingredients if you want to keep it dairy-free or gluten-free.

Can I freeze pasta salad?
Not recommended. Pasta and fresh veggies don’t freeze well and tend to get soggy when thawed.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, this Sweet and Tangy Italian Pasta Salad is a keeper. It’s got that nostalgic potluck feel with a fresh twist. Toss it together, chill it down, and get ready for second helpings—because they’re coming.

Want more easy and delicious recipes like this? Stick around. I’ve got plenty more family-friendly ideas that are fast, flavorful, and always a hit.