Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Name: Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

kate

Update : April 7, 2026

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad with colorful vegetables and dressing

why make this recipe

This salad is quick, bright, and full of flavor. It uses fresh veg, cheese, and a simple dressing. You can make it ahead and take it to a picnic or serve it with any main dish. If you like extra cucumber in cold pasta, see a similar idea in the best cucumber pasta salad for more cucumber tips.

introduction

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a fresh and easy dish. It mixes cooked pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and mozzarella. A simple Italian dressing adds tang and herb flavor. You can make it the same day or a few hours ahead. The salad stays bright and tasty when chilled.

how to make Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta until tender, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.
Chop the vegetables and cube the mozzarella.
Mix the pasta, vegetables, cheese, and parsley in a large bowl.
Whisk the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is coated.
Chill for at least 30 minutes or serve right away at room temperature.

Ingredients :

8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions :

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

how to serve Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Serve it cold or at room temperature. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad. For a hearty plate, serve it with a warm side like the classic chicken pot pie pasta.

how to store Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may soak up dressing over time; toss gently and add a little extra olive oil or vinegar before serving if needed.

tips to make Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Cook pasta one minute less than package time for a firmer bite.
Rinse pasta in cold water to stop cooking and cool fast.
Chop vegetables to similar sizes so every bite is balanced.
Taste the dressing and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar.
Make it a few hours ahead so flavors blend well.

variation (if any)

Add cooked chicken or chickpeas for more protein.
Swap mozzarella for feta for a tangy twist.
Use bell pepper or artichoke hearts for more texture.
Add fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes. Penne, rotini, or bow tie work well.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make it a few hours before serving and keep it chilled.

Q: How long will it last in the fridge?
A: It keeps for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use bottled Italian dressing?
A: Yes, but taste first. You may want to add a bit of olive oil or vinegar.

Q: Is this recipe good for a potluck?
A: Yes. It travels well and serves many people.