Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Bursting with flavor, my Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is delicious and oh-so easy to prepare. This flavorful noodle salad combines fresh veggies, tender pasta, hearty meat and creamy cheese with a tangy dressing that will leave you craving more.

If there is a cold salad that I could eat all the time, it would be this rotini pasta salad with zesty Italian dressing. The taste is out of this world but it’s also easy to make and a crowd-pleaser.

It’s one of my go-to recipes because it comes together quickly with minimal prep. And it’s easy to customize the ingredients to what I have on hand or to accommodate picky eaters (bonus!).

And it’s a real winner for the carb lovers! Yep–that would be me (give me allll the carbs, like this easy California Spaghetti Salad).

When I’m in meal prepping mode, I make a big bowl of pasta salad on the weekend so I can serve it as an easy side for weeknight meals. But this noodle dish is pretty enough for company and is always a hit at cookouts, barbecues, potlucks and picnics. If you’re looking for another simple noodle side dish check out my family favorite pasta salad recipe.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option or the perfect side dish for your next summer BBQ, this easy recipe has got you covered. And with endless variations and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. No matter how you serve it up be prepared to make this recipe again and again.

​Italian Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Pasta – I love using spiral noodles for this salad because the shape of the noodle catches the dressing well. But feel free to substitute your favorite type of pasta.
• Broccoli – if you’re short on time, look for pre-cut broccoli in the produce department. I don’t recommend using frozen because the thawed veggies get too soggy after sitting in the refrigerator. 
• Bell Peppers – I usually have red peppers on hand but multi-colored peppers add a festive look to the salad.
• Mozzarella Cheese – cubes work best here. I buy the blocks and give them a quick chop. Shredded cheese will work in a pinch, but you may want to use a little more to balance out all of the flavors.
• Pepperoni – I like using the mini ones because they are less work, convenient (and well, cute!). You can also cut full-size pepperonis into quarters. Salami is another option if you’re not a pepperoni fan.
• Zesty Italian Salad Dressing – I use a store bought dressing for this salad because it’s so convenient. Feel free to use a creamy version if that’s what you have. Or try my Creamy House Dressing recipe if you prefer a homemade dressing.
• Other Ingredients: black olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, English cucumber, parsley, basil, salt and black pepper.

How to Make Rotini Pasta Salad with Zesty Italian Dressing

Follow the package directions to cook the pasta until al dente. Rinse the hot pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process.

Chop the vegetables, meat and cheese while the pasta is cooking and set aside.

Drain the noodles and transfer them to a large bowl.

Add all the fresh vegetables, cheese, meat, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the cooked pasta. Stir to combine thoroughly.

Pour the salad dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is coated well.

Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. 

Tips for Making and Storing Noodle Salad

• Pasta salads taste much better after they’ve chilled (unless they are meant to be served hot). I recommend chilling for at least 2 hours before serving, to give the flavors a chance to get to know each other.
• Leftovers should be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. After that, the cheese starts getting a little soggy and the dressing becomes a little tangier. 
• Feel free to add or omit ingredients based on what you have on hand. This is a dish that can be easily customized without compromising the flavor.
• If you’re tight on kitchen storage like me, you need a colander like this. It’s collapsible, making it a huge space saver, and it fits most sinks. 

Frequently asked questions

How should I store pasta salad with veggies?

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain its crispness and flavor. 

Can I reheat the pasta salad?

This pasta salad is best served cold and is not intended to be reheated. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture of the vegetables and pasta.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This cold noodle salad is perfect for advance preparation and meal prepping. Make it the night before or a few hours in advance. If the salad looks a little dried out stir in additional dressing to remoisten it. 

What to Serve With a Zesty Pasta Salad

This flavorful pasta salad goes with just about anything. Pair it with sandwiches like a tuna melt or sloppy joe, or serve it with a slice of garlic bread for a light lunch. For dinner, I like to serve it with a light protein like Southern baked chicken thighs or air fryer beef kabobs and add a bowl of strawberry fluff salad for a dessert.

Whether you’re gearing up for a family barbecue, searching for a quick weeknight meal, or planning a potluck contribution, this cold pasta salad recipe is a tasty addition to any meal. The bold flavors will appeal to kids and adults and the ability to prepare it ahead of time makes meal time a breeze. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does!