Summer pasta salads are the ultimate warm-weather meal! They’re packed with fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and are super versatile – perfect for picnics, BBQs, or even a light weeknight dinner.
From creamy and comforting to zesty and refreshing, there’s a pasta salad out there to satisfy every craving.
Get ready to discover some seriously delicious ways to enjoy pasta this season!.
Table of Contents
Garden Veggie Macaroni Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
This colorful macaroni salad is bursting with fresh garden vegetables and tossed in a creamy, herby dressing made with avocado and Greek yogurt.
It’s a hearty and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering, offering a delightful mix of crunchy veggies and tender pasta..
Pro Tip: Make sure to cool the pasta completely before adding the dressing to prevent wilting the vegetables and keep the dressing from thinning out.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Macaroni Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Penne Pasta Salad with Shrimp Chili & Lime
A simple yet incredibly flavorful penne pasta salad featuring the zesty kick of chili and lime, perfectly complementing tender shrimp.
This salad is an ideal companion for grilled meats or fish, bringing a bright and tangy note to any BBQ spread..
Pro Tip: Don't overcook the pasta; it should still have a nice bite to it for the best texture in a pasta salad.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pasta Salad with Shrimp Chili & Lime
Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this vibrant Greek orzo pasta salad.
Packed with classic Greek flavors like feta cheese and a zesty dressing, it’s a delicious side dish or a light main course that travels well and is perfect for picnics..
Pro Tip: Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite Greek ingredients like Kalamata olives, red onion, or fresh herbs.
Get the Recipe: Greek Orzo Pasta Salad
Cold Angel Hair Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
This quick and easy angel hair pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser, tossed with a classic Italian dressing and customizable with your favorite veggies.
It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for lunches or potlucks, offering a light and refreshing flavor..
Pro Tip: This pasta salad stays good in the fridge for days, making it perfect for meal prep or a busy week.
Get the Recipe: Cold Angel Hair Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad with Salami
Upgrade your summer BBQ with this flavorful Italian pasta salad, featuring hearty salami, fresh veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing.
It's a satisfying dish that can be prepared ahead, making it ideal for any summer gathering..
Pro Tip: To prevent sogginess when storing, consider removing the salami and storing it separately, then adding it back before serving.
Get the Recipe: Zesty Italian Pasta Salad with Salami
Pineapple Shrimp Macaroni Salad
A uniquely delightful macaroni salad that balances sweet pineapple and succulent shrimp with a hint of curry.
This unexpected combination creates a truly tasty and refreshing dish perfect for a summer cookout..
Pro Tip: Chill the salad for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the unique flavors to meld together beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Shrimp Macaroni Salad
Italian Cold Spaghetti Salad with Shrimp
Hailing from the Marche region of Italy, this cold spaghetti salad is a light and fresh dish featuring tender spaghetti, pre-cooked shrimp, peppery arugula, and sweet cherry tomatoes with a simple oil and vinegar dressing.
It's perfect for a beach picnic or a light lunch..
Pro Tip: For the best texture, add the arugula just before serving to prevent it from becoming wilted.
Get the Recipe: Italian Cold Spaghetti Salad with Shrimp
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Inspired by the beloved flavors of elote, this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is a fiesta in a bowl! Loaded with corn, creamy dressing, and a touch of spice, it's a unique and delicious side that’s sure to be a hit at any summer get-together..
Pro Tip: Adjust the chili powder and cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level, tasting as you go.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Seafood Pasta Salad with Old Bay
This make-ahead seafood pasta salad is like a taste of vacation! Creamy pasta shells are mixed with shrimp and crab, seasoned perfectly with Old Bay, brightened with lemon, and enhanced with fresh vegetables and herbs.
It's a satisfying dish that's perfect for any summer occasion..
Pro Tip: The bold flavor of Old Bay seasoning truly makes this salad stand out, so don't be shy with it!
Get the Recipe: Seafood Pasta Salad with Old Bay
Balsamic Tofu Pasta Salad
A light, healthy, and protein-packed plant-based pasta salad that’s bursting with fresh summer vegetables and a tangy balsamic dressing.
Crispy tofu adds a satisfying texture, making it a great meal or a nutritious side dish..
Pro Tip: Using pre-cooked or marinated tofu can significantly cut down on prep time for this salad.
Get the Recipe: Balsamic Tofu Pasta Salad
Bright Lemon Pasta Salad with Dill
This summer pasta salad is sunshine in a bowl! A bright, homemade lemon dressing, fresh dill, and in-season vegetables come together for an irresistibly delicious and refreshing side dish perfect for BBQs..
Pro Tip: Do NOT rinse the pasta after cooking; un-rinsed pasta absorbs the dressing much better.
Get the Recipe: Bright Lemon Pasta Salad with Dill
Mediterranean Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
Combine the vibrant flavors of Greek salad with hearty pasta and tender grilled chicken for a perfect summer meal or side dish.
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is healthy, delicious, and great for meal prep..
Pro Tip: For quicker preparation, utilize a rotisserie chicken or any leftover grilled chicken you might have.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Greek Chicken Pasta Salad
Vegan Peanut Pasta Salad with Leftover Spaghetti
Give leftover spaghetti a delicious makeover with this flavorful vegan peanut pasta salad! A spicy peanut sauce coats the noodles and crunchy vegetables, creating a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that reduces food waste..
Pro Tip: Store the dressing separately from the noodles and vegetables if making ahead to prevent the noodles from becoming soggy.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Peanut Pasta Salad with Leftover Spaghetti
Smoked Corn Bacon Avocado Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a fun twist on a classic, featuring the sweet and smoky flavor of grilled corn, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado, all tied together with a zesty avocado cilantro dressing.
It’s a perfect side for any summer barbecue..
Pro Tip: This salad contains whipping cream and should not be left at room temperature for extended periods; store with plenty of ice for picnics.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Corn Bacon Avocado Pasta Salad
Creamy Pesto Summer Pasta Salad
This gluten-free pasta salad is a flavorful taste of Italy, combining short pasta with fresh tomatoes, toasted walnuts, Parmesan cheese, and a rich, creamy basil pesto dressing.
It's a perfect, crowd-pleasing side for any summer event..
Pro Tip: For the best texture, especially with gluten-free pasta, cook it until just under al dente and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before adding other ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pesto Summer Pasta Salad
Caprese Orzo Salad
This Caprese Orzo Salad is a bright and flavorful twist on a classic.
Tender orzo pasta is tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil ribbons, and creamy mozzarella pearls, all coated in a zesty balsamic vinaigrette.
It's wonderfully simple to prepare, and even better when made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Perfect as a side for grilled meats or a light meal on its own..
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, make this salad at least 2 hours ahead of time to let the ingredients marry.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Orzo Salad
Creamy Veggie Pasta Salad
This versatile pasta salad is a celebration of fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing.
Made with your favorite small pasta, it's loaded with crunchy carrots, bell peppers, onions, and celery, all brought together by a delightful mayo-based dressing seasoned with herbs and a hint of spice.
It’s incredibly adaptable, making it easy to use up whatever veggies you have on hand..
Pro Tip: Add a handful of corn kernels or green peas for extra color and nutrients.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Veggie Pasta Salad
Vegan Avocado Pasta Salad
Get ready for a creamy, no-mayo pasta salad that’s both delicious and healthy! This vegan delight features pasta tossed with fresh veggies like cucumber, red pepper, and cherry tomatoes, all bound together by a luscious avocado-based dressing infused with dill and garlic.
It's quick to whip up, packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas, and perfect for picnics or a light dinner..
Pro Tip: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what's in season or on sale for a personalized touch.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Avocado Pasta Salad
Cobb Pasta Salad
Experience the classic flavors of a Cobb salad in a hearty pasta dish! This delightful creation combines tender pasta with all the beloved Cobb ingredients: crisp bacon, ripe tomatoes, savory chicken, hard-boiled eggs, creamy avocado, and a hint of blue cheese, all drizzled with ranch dressing.
It’s a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner..
Pro Tip: To keep the pasta from sticking when making ahead, add the avocado and dressing just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Cobb Pasta Salad
Turkey Pasta Salad
This flavorful turkey pasta salad offers a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Tender shredded turkey is combined with pasta and a creamy tahini dressing, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile.
It’s a great way to use up leftover turkey and create a meal that’s both nourishing and tasty..
Pro Tip: The tahini dressing can be made creamier by adding a little more water if needed.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pasta Salad
Smoked Italian Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this bold and flavorful Smoked Italian Pasta Salad! Smoking the ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, mozzarella, salami, and pepperoni adds a rich, savory depth that makes this dish truly special.
Tossed with a zippy vinaigrette and fresh basil, it’s a standout option for any summer gathering..
Pro Tip: For best results, let the assembled pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Italian Pasta Salad
Gluten-Free Pasta Salad
Enjoy a vibrant and hearty pasta salad that's naturally gluten-free! This recipe features your favorite gluten-free pasta tossed with flavorful ingredients like salami, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil, all tied together with a zesty homemade dressing.
It’s a versatile and healthy option perfect for picnics, parties, or meal prep..
Pro Tip: When making this salad ahead, keep the veggies separate until closer to serving time to maintain their crunchiness.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Get all the delicious flavors of buffalo chicken dip in a satisfying pasta salad! This tortellini-based dish is loaded with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and cheese, all coated in a creamy, zesty dressing.
It's a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for picnics and parties, and can even be made vegetarian by omitting the chicken..
Pro Tip: Reserve a little of the dressing to moisten leftovers, as pasta salad can tend to dry out.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Greek Tortellini Salad
This easy Tortellini Pasta Salad is bursting with Mediterranean flavors! Pillowy cheese tortellini is combined with grilled chicken, crisp vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper, briny Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty homemade Italian dressing.
It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for any summer occasion..
Pro Tip: Chop your vegetables to be small and of similar size for the easiest and most enjoyable eating experience.
Get the Recipe: Greek Tortellini Salad
Herbed Cheese and Veggie Macaroni Salad
Put a delightful twist on classic macaroni salad with this herbed cheese and veggie version.
It features tender elbow macaroni combined with diced herbed mozzarella, bell pepper, red onion, celery, and dill pickles, all coated in a creamy blend of mayonnaise and sour cream with a hint of dill.
It’s a flavorful, make-ahead side dish perfect for BBQs and picnics..
Pro Tip: If you don't have herbed mozzarella, regular mozzarella cheese will work just fine.
Get the Recipe: Herbed Cheese and Veggie Macaroni Salad
Healthy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is packed with flavor, healthy ingredients, and a good dose of protein! Tender chicken and al dente pasta are tossed with fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and red onion, all brought together by a bright and zesty pesto-lemon dressing.
It’s a satisfying and delicious meal perfect for meal prep or a summer potluck..
Pro Tip: Using a stand mixer is a great way to easily shred your cooked chicken.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Pasta Salad with Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
This light and fresh pasta salad is bursting with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs.
Penne pasta is tossed with baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and red onion, all coated in a simple, tangy lemon herb vinaigrette.
It’s a wonderfully refreshing dish perfect for any summer gathering..
Pro Tip: To prevent the spinach from getting soggy, add it to the salad just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Lemon Herb Vinaigrette
Greek Pasta Salad
Dive into the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean with this incredible Greek Pasta Salad! Featuring pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, pepperoncini, Kalamata olives, red onion, and creamy feta cheese, it's all coated in a vibrant homemade Greek dressing.
This salad is not only quick to assemble but tastes even better made ahead, making it perfect for BBQs and picnics..
Pro Tip: Prepare this pasta salad a day in advance for the best flavor melding.
Get the Recipe: Greek Pasta Salad
Basil Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Avocado
This easy and flavorful pesto pasta dish comes together in under 20 minutes! Fusilli pasta is coated in a creamy basil pesto sauce, wilted spinach, and tender avocado, with a hint of red wine vinegar for brightness.
It’s a fresh, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner or a light side dish..
Pro Tip: Add the avocado right at the end of preparation to keep it from getting mushy or browning.
Get the Recipe: Basil Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Avocado
Italian Tortellini Salad
This is truly the best Italian pasta salad, featuring cheesy tortellini, savory uncured salami, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, fresh mozzarella, and tangy pepperoncini, all tossed in a heavenly homemade Italian dressing.
It’s the ultimate side dish for summer potlucks and BBQs, bringing a taste of Italy to your table with minimal fuss..
Pro Tip: Make sure your tortellini is cooked just until al dente, as overcooked pasta will become soggy in the salad.
Get the Recipe: Italian Tortellini Salad
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta
This orzo salad is a sunny taste of the Mediterranean, bringing together tender orzo pasta with creamy feta, crunchy vegetables, and hearty chickpeas.
It's all tossed in a bright, zesty lemon dressing, making it a refreshing and quick dish that’s perfect for any summer occasion.
Its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures make it a delightful vegetarian option..
Pro Tip: This salad is fantastic for meal prep; the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Feta
Broccoli Pasta Salad with Strawberries
Put a sweet and savory spin on your classic pasta salad with this delightful broccoli creation.
Featuring a playful mix of crisp broccoli, crunchy sunflower seeds, sharp onions, and sweet strawberries, all coated in a light, creamy dressing.
It’s a beautiful balance of textures and tastes, offering a refreshing and slightly unexpected twist on a potluck favorite..
Pro Tip: Experiment with different pasta shapes like rotini or penne for varied textures, and consider adding toasted almonds for extra crunch.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pasta Salad with Strawberries
Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta salad game with this gourmet Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad, a dish that’s both a delightful side and a satisfying main.
Juicy, tender shrimp is tossed with cheesy tortellini and a medley of colorful veggies in a rich, creamy pesto dressing.
It’s a sophisticated yet approachable option for any gathering, offering a burst of fresh, savory flavor..
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, stir in a handful of fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of pine nuts just before serving.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad