If you’re on the hunt for a delightful, easy-to-make dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite Italian Pasta Salad Recipe. This salad brings together perfectly cooked penne pasta, zesty lemon juice, creamy mayonnaise, and a medley of fresh ingredients that dance on your palate with every bite. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brightens any meal or gathering with its sunny colors and bold, balanced taste. Trust me, once you try this Italian Pasta Salad Recipe, it’ll become your go-to for potlucks, barbecues, or even a simple family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, fresh ingredients is all it takes to whip up this sensational Italian Pasta Salad Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, adding layers of flavor, texture, and a pop of color to make this dish truly shine.
- Penne Pasta: The perfect sturdy pasta that holds the dressing well without getting mushy.
- Olive Oil: Adds rich, fruity depth and helps tie all the flavors together.
- Lemon Juice: Brings bright, tangy freshness that wakes up the whole salad.
- Mayonnaise: Gives the salad a creamy, luscious texture that’s utterly satisfying.
- Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that infuses the dressing with classic Italian flair.
- Grape Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of vibrant color and freshness.
- Shaved Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that perfectly complements the other flavors.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped just before tossing for a fragrant, herbal punch that elevates the salad.
How to Make Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Once drained, give it a good rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and help cool the pasta. This step ensures your salad won’t end up mushy and keeps a wonderful bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
Next, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. This combination creates a creamy, tangy dressing with a beautiful herbal undertone that envelopes every piece of pasta. The mayonnaise adds richness without weighing it down, while the lemon juice adds that perfect zing.
Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients
Once your pasta is cool, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Then toss in juicy grape tomatoes, shaved parmesan cheese, and freshly chopped basil. Gently toss everything so the pasta is evenly coated and the ingredients are well distributed. This ensures every forkful delivers a little bit of everything.
Step 4: Chill and Marinate
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours or overnight. This chilling time is essential—it lets all the flavors meld and intensify, turning the salad from good to absolutely unforgettable.
How to Serve Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra shaved parmesan or a few fresh basil leaves on top before serving adds a fresh and eye-catching touch. For a little extra color and texture, consider adding sliced black olives or thinly sliced red onions just before serving.
Side Dishes
This Italian Pasta Salad Recipe stands brilliantly on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, crisp green salads, or hearty sandwiches. It’s fantastic alongside a summer barbecue spread or as a light lunch on a warm day.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve this pasta salad in a large, colorful bowl with serving utensils that invite everyone to dig in. Alternatively, portion it into small mason jars or individual cups for a fun, portable twist that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making the salad taste even better the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients, freezing this salad isn’t recommended. Freezing would alter the texture and fresh flavors significantly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and would take away from its refreshing qualities. If you prefer it a little less chilled, simply let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Italian Pasta Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional for holding the dressing well, rigatoni, rotini, or even bowtie pasta work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook it al dente.
Is it okay to substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?
You can substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version. It changes the texture slightly but still tastes fantastic.
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting time lets the herbs and dressing fully seep into the pasta.
Can I add other vegetables to this Italian Pasta Salad Recipe?
Definitely! Chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives make great additions that add crunch and variety.
What’s the best way to keep the pasta from sticking?
Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking helps remove excess starch and cools it quickly, which prevents sticking and keeps it nicely separate in the salad.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel just as excited as I do to try this vibrant Italian Pasta Salad Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that brings joy with every bite—simple ingredients turning into something truly special. Whether you’re planning a casual family meal or hosting friends, this salad is a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a go, and I promise it’ll become a cherished staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 8 hours chilling
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Italian Pasta Salad featuring penne pasta, grape tomatoes, shaved parmesan cheese, and fresh basil, all tossed in a zesty Italian-seasoned dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light side dish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (16-oz) box penne pasta
Dressing
- â…” cup olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp Italian seasoning
Salad Mix
- ¾ cup grape tomatoes, cut into halves
- 1½ cups shaved parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and allow it to cool completely to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Prepare Dressing and Combine: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and Italian seasoning until well blended. Add the cooled pasta, halved grape tomatoes, shaved parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil to the dressing. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the salad for at least 8 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Notes
- For best flavor, prepare the salad a day ahead to allow adequate time for chilling.
- You can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Use freshly grated parmesan if shaved parmesan is unavailable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
