Tricolored Pasta Salad

Tricolored Pasta Salad

This refreshing and colorful pasta salad features tricolored rotini tossed with crunchy vegetables, olives, cheese, and a tangy Italian-style vinaigrette. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for make-ahead lunches or large gatherings.

Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

Chill Time (recommended): 30 minutes

Total Time: 25–45 minutes

Ingredients 

Salad:

12 oz (340g) tricolored rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

½ red bell pepper, diced

½ yellow bell pepper, diced

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

½ cup black olives or Kalamata olives, sliced

½ cup cubed mozzarella, cheddar, or feta cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil

Dressing:

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: ½ teaspoon honey or sugar (for balance)

Or use ¾ cup store-bought Italian dressing if you prefer quick prep.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring salted water to a boil.

Cook tricolor rotini according to package directions until al dente.

Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Let it cool completely.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together:

Olive oil

Red wine vinegar

Mustard

Garlic

Oregano

Salt & pepper

Honey (if using)

Shake or whisk until emulsified.

3. Assemble the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

Cooked and cooled pasta

Tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, onion, olives, and cheese

Pour dressing over and toss to coat evenly.

4. Chill & Serve:

Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips & Notes

Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas.

For creamier texture: Add 2 tablespoons of mayo or Greek yogurt to the dressing.

Add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes, marinated artichokes, or roasted red peppers are great upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: 3–4 days in an airtight container. It tastes even better the next day!

Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Yes! Bowties, penne, shells, or even gluten-free pasta all work well.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Great with grilled meats, burgers, sandwiches, or wraps

Serve as a vegetarian main dish with crusty bread

Makes a great picnic or potluck side

Nutritional Information 

Calories: 320

Protein: 7g

Fat: 16g

Carbs: 35g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 3g

Sodium: ~300mg

 

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