Pasta salads are a delicious way to mix up your meal options during the summer months. Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but there are many variations to choose from. From vegan, to gluten-free, to paleo-friendly, pasta salads offer a range of options for everyone. Here, we’ll explore some of the best unique pasta salad recipes that you can make this summer.
The Classic Caprese Pasta Salad
The classic caprese pasta salad is a delicious combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and pasta. This classic Italian-inspired dish is the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and color. To make this delicious salad, you’ll need:
- 1 package of penne pasta
- 2 cups of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of small mozzarella balls
- ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the caprese pasta salad, first cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the halved tomatoes. Add the mozzarella balls and mix together. In a separate small bowl, mix together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the pasta and tomatoes and mix together until evenly coated.
Chill the caprese pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. You can also add additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or artichoke hearts, if you’d like. This dish is best served cold and can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course.
Vegan Macaroni Salad
This vegan macaroni salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. To make this salad, you’ll need:
- 1 package of macaroni noodles
- 1 cup of vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, chives, etc.)
To make the vegan macaroni salad, first cook the macaroni noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni noodles, vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix together until evenly combined. If desired, you can also add in fresh herbs for additional flavor. Stir until the herbs are evenly distributed.
Chill the vegan macaroni salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This dish is best served cold and can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course. You can also add additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots, if you’d like.
Asian-Inspired Noodle Salad
This Asian-inspired noodle salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. To make this salad, you’ll need:
- 1 package of soba noodles
- 3 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil, etc.)
To make the Asian-inspired noodle salad, first cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the cooked soba noodles, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix together until evenly combined. If desired, you can also add in fresh herbs for additional flavor. Stir until the herbs are evenly distributed.
Chill the Asian-inspired noodle salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This dish is best served cold and can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course. You can also add additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or snow peas, if you’d like.
Fiesta Pasta Salad
This fiesta pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. To make this salad, you’ll need:
- 1 package of fusilli pasta
- 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can of corn, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup of cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro
To make the fiesta pasta salad, first cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, tomatoes, diced avocado, olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix together until evenly combined. If desired, you can also add in fresh cilantro for additional flavor. Stir until the cilantro is evenly distributed.
Chill the fiesta pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This dish is best served cold and can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course. You can also add additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or olives, if you’d like.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of pasta for a pasta salad?
The best type of pasta for a pasta salad depends on your preferences and the type of salad you are making. For a classic Italian-inspired caprese salad, penne pasta is a great option. For a vegan macaroni salad, macaroni noodles are a great choice. For an Asian-inspired noodle salad, soba noodles are a great option. And for a fiesta pasta salad, fusilli pasta is a great choice.
Can I make a pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make a pasta salad ahead of time. In fact, it’s best to make the salad at least an hour before serving so that the flavors can meld together. You can store the salad in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I use gluten-free pasta in a pasta salad?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in a pasta salad. In fact, there are many types of gluten-free pasta available on the market, such as brown rice, quinoa, and buckwheat noodles. Just be sure to check the package instructions for cooking times.
Can I add vegetables to my pasta salad?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to your pasta salad. In fact, adding vegetables is a great way to make your salad more nutritious and flavorful. Some great vegetables to add to a pasta salad include bell peppers, carrots, artichoke hearts, olives, snow peas, and tomatoes.
