Pasta Salad Recipe | Easy and Delicious Summer Side Dish

When summer arrives in the UK, light and refreshing meals take centre stage, and pasta salad is always a winning choice. This easy-to-make dish combines vibrant vegetables, satisfying pasta, and flavour-packed dressings into one irresistible bowl.

Whether you’re hosting a garden party, preparing weekday lunches, or planning a picnic, this pasta salad recipe offers both simplicity and flexibility, making it a seasonal essential you’ll return to again and again.

What is Pasta Salad?

Pasta salad is a cold dish that blends cooked pasta with a variety of vegetables, proteins, and dressings. Unlike hot pasta meals, it’s served chilled, making it a perfect side dish for warm-weather occasions like picnics, barbecues, and garden parties.

Its versatility means it can be tailored to suit vegetarian diets, high-protein requirements, or even dairy-free lifestyles.

Traditionally, pasta salad originated in Italy, where cold pasta dishes were enjoyed during summer harvests. Today, it’s a beloved side dish across the UK, often accompanying grilled meats, sandwiches, or eaten on its own as a light lunch.

What sets pasta salad apart is its ability to adapt, whether it’s a classic Mediterranean mix with olives and feta or a creamy, tangy version loaded with herbs and crunchy vegetables, there’s a version for every palate.

Why is Pasta Salad a Summer Favourite in the UK?

During the UK’s brief but cherished summer months, simplicity in the kitchen becomes key. Pasta salad fits this need perfectly. It’s an easy-to-prepare dish that doesn’t require reheating, which is ideal for outdoor dining or when hosting guests.

Many households prefer dishes that can be made in advance, and pasta salad delivers just that. It can be made in the morning and served hours later without compromising flavour.

With the rise of picnicking and al fresco dining across parks and beaches in Britain, pasta salad’s portability has made it even more popular.

It’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables or protein, reducing kitchen waste while still delivering flavour and satisfaction. Whether served alongside grilled sausages or as part of a vegetarian spread, it’s balance of carbs, fibre, and healthy fats makes it a well-rounded option.

Ingredients for Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta Salad Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Set aside to cool fully before mixing.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• While the pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, slice the red onions thinly, and chop the bell peppers.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the sweetcorn.
• Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add the Protein

• Add your choice of protein (feta, chickpeas, chicken, or tuna) to the bowl with vegetables.
• If using grilled chicken or tuna, ensure it’s cooked through and cooled before adding.

Step 4: Make or Add the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
• For a creamier version, substitute part of the vinaigrette with mayo or Greek yogurt.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables and proteins.
• Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine.
• Add herbs like torn basil and chopped parsley.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavours meld.
• Serve chilled or allow to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Can I Make Pasta Salad Ahead of Time and Store It?

Yes, and it might even taste better the next day. Pasta salad is the ideal make-ahead dish. In fact, it often benefits from a few hours in the fridge, allowing flavours to blend and deepen.

Here’s how to store it:

• Use an airtight container
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3–4 days
• Add delicate ingredients (like leafy greens or avocado) just before serving

If you’re using a creamy dressing, be aware that it might thicken in the fridge. You can revive it by stirring in a splash of olive oil or lemon juice just before serving.

How Do I Add Flavour Without Overpowering the Dish?

The best pasta salads use contrasts, sweet cherry tomatoes with sharp red onions, or creamy feta against tangy vinaigrette. Here’s how I keep mine full of flavour:

• Add acid: Lemon juice, vinegar, or pickles
• Use herbs generously: Fresh basil, mint, parsley
• Mix textures: Crunchy veg, soft cheese, firm pasta
• Don’t overdo the salt, taste before seasoning
• Marinate your veggies briefly in dressing for extra flavour

A good pasta salad doesn’t need to be drenched in dressing. Let the ingredients shine through by tossing lightly and tasting as you go.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pasta Salad?

Despite its simplicity, pasta salad can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are the most common pitfalls:

• Overcooked pasta will break apart when mixed
• Under-seasoning, taste before and after chilling
• Overloading with mayonnaise masks the flavour
• Adding wet ingredients too early will make the salad soggy
• Skipping the chill time, flavours need to settle

Avoiding these will keep your pasta salad fresh, flavourful, and textured.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta salad isn’t just a side, it can be the star of your summer table or a versatile companion to a range of dishes. Its balance of carbs, vegetables, and protein makes it suitable for countless serving styles.

Serve as a Main Dish With Crusty Sourdough or Focaccia

When served in larger portions, pasta salad makes a satisfying standalone meal. Pair it with slices of warm sourdough or freshly baked focaccia to soak up every bit of dressing and enhance its Mediterranean flavours.

Pair With Grilled Meats, Like Chicken Skewers or Lamb Chops

Pasta salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to smoky, grilled meats. Whether it’s chargrilled chicken skewers, lamb chops, or sausages, its crisp vegetables and tangy dressing balance out rich, barbecued proteins beautifully.

Use as a Filling for Lettuce Wraps for a Low-carb Option

For a lighter alternative, spoon the pasta salad into crunchy romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s a clever twist that transforms the dish into a handheld appetiser or snack, perfect for guests or summer grazing boards.

Serve Alongside Quiche or Savoury Tarts at Garden Parties

Pairing pasta salad with a slice of warm quiche or a seasonal vegetable tart creates a well-rounded vegetarian meal. This combination works wonderfully for brunch tables, picnics, and elegant garden parties.

Can Pasta Salad Be Made Healthy and Still Taste Great?

Pasta salad has an unfair reputation for being carb-heavy or creamy. But with a few simple swaps, it becomes a nutritious, balanced dish.

• Choose whole wheat or lentil-based pasta for added fibre
• Load up on raw vegetables
• Use lean protein sources like chickpeas or grilled chicken
• Opt for vinaigrette dressings over mayo
• Add nuts or seeds for healthy fats

It’s a great way to sneak in 3–4 servings of veg in one meal.

Nutritional Breakdown (per average serving)

Creative Add-Ins and Toppings for Extra Crunch and Colour

Here are some fun additions I like to use:

• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds
• Pickled red onions or capers
• Roasted peppers or sun-dried tomatoes
• Crumbled blue cheese or grated Parmesan
• Pomegranate seeds or raisins for sweetness
• Fresh rocket or spinach for a leafy touch

A well-crafted pasta salad should be a visual treat as much as a flavourful one. Bright colours, varied shapes, and diverse textures make it more appealing.

Famous Chef-Inspired Pasta Salad Variations

• BBC Good Food Classic: Mediterranean mix with cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumber, and feta in a lemon-olive oil dressing
• Inspired Taste Creamy Salad: Pasta with red onion, celery, pickles, and a creamy dressing of mayo, mustard, and herbs
• Love & Lemons Vegan Pasta Salad: Gluten-free pasta, chickpeas, radishes, and a tahini-lemon dressing
• Budget Bytes Quick Fix: Rotini with tomatoes, bell pepper, olives, and bottled Italian dressing for ease
• BBC Summer Garden: Asparagus, peas, mint, and goat’s cheese tossed in honey mustard dressing

Each version brings something different to the table, from cost-effective to gourmet, vegan to indulgent.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect pasta salad is all about balance between texture, flavour, and freshness. This versatile recipe not only caters to a range of dietary needs but also elevates any summer table with ease.

Whether enjoyed as a main course or side dish, it brings a colourful, satisfying touch to every meal. Try it once, and it just might become your go-to dish all summer long.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store pasta salad in the fridge?

Pasta salad lasts 3–4 days in an airtight container, but always check for freshness before serving.

Can I freeze pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of pasta and fresh vegetables degrades after thawing.

What’s the best pasta type for pasta salad?

Short, ridged shapes like fusilli, rotini, and penne are ideal as they hold dressing and don’t go mushy easily.

Can I make pasta salad without cheese?

Yes, you can skip cheese or use dairy-free alternatives like vegan feta or nutritional yeast.

What’s a good protein source for vegetarian pasta salad?

Chickpeas, lentils, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs make excellent additions for plant-based protein.

Should I serve pasta salad cold or room temperature?

Cold is traditional, but room temperature allows flavours to come through more fully.

Pasta Salad Recipe

Freya

Creating the perfect pasta salad is all about balance between texture, flavour, and freshness. This versatile recipe not only caters to a range of dietary needs but also elevates any summer table with ease.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 1 people

Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 300 g Fusilli penne, or farfalle
• 200 g Cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 medium Cucumber diced
• ½ medium Red onion finely sliced
• 1 cup Bell peppers diced (mixed)
• 150 g Sweetcorn cooked or canned
• 100 g Feta cheese cubed
• 1 cup Chickpeas cooked/canned
• 150 g Grilled chicken or tuna optional
• 3 tbsp Olive oil vinaigrette
• 2 tbsp Lemon juice and zest
• 2 tbsp Creamy mayo optional
• 2 tbsp Fresh basil torn
• 1 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
• ½ tsp Dried oregano
• Salt To taste
• Black pepper To taste
• ¼ tsp Chilli flakes optional

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add your choice of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Set aside to cool fully before mixing.
• While the pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, slice the red onions thinly, and chop the bell peppers.
  1 medium Cucumber, ½ medium Red onion, 1 cup Bell peppers
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the sweetcorn.
  200 g Cherry tomatoes, 150 g Sweetcorn
• Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
  2 tbsp Creamy mayo, ½ tsp Dried oregano, ¼ tsp Chilli flakes
• Add your choice of protein (feta, chickpeas, chicken, or tuna) to the bowl with vegetables.
  300 g Fusilli, 100 g Feta cheese, 1 cup Chickpeas, 150 g Grilled chicken or tuna
• If using grilled chicken or tuna, ensure it's cooked through and cooled before adding.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
  3 tbsp Olive oil vinaigrette, 2 tbsp Lemon juice and zest, Black pepper, Salt
• For a creamier version, substitute part of the vinaigrette with mayo or Greek yogurt.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables and proteins.
• Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine.
• Add herbs like torn basil and chopped parsley.
  1 tbsp Fresh parsley, 2 tbsp Fresh basil
• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavours meld.
• Serve chilled or allow to rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

Keyword Pasta Salad Recipe