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