Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A vibrant and colorful bowl of the best pasta salad recipe, filled with rotini, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and cheese, tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.

The Ultimate Best Pasta Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This is the ultimate best pasta salad recipe, perfect for any gathering! Featuring al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, provolone cheese, and a tangy homemade Italian vinaigrette, it's a crowd-pleasing side dish that's easy to make ahead.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz (450g) rotini, fusilli, or farfalle pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
4 oz (113g) provolone cheese, cubed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and cubed provolone cheese.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the chopped fresh parsley and toss again.
Step 6: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-4 hours, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Step 7: Before serving, give the pasta salad another good toss. If it seems a little dry, you can add a splash more olive oil or red wine vinegar to refresh it. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Enjoy!

Notes

For best flavor, make this pasta salad at least 2 hours in advance to allow the dressing to marinate the ingredients. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Logo

Join Eldralys Recipes!

Get the latest recipe trends delivered to your inbox daily.

✓ You're on the list!