Best 3 Italian Garden Pasta Salad Recipes

In the realm of refreshing and flavorful summer dishes, Italian Garden Pasta Salad stands out as a delightful symphony of flavors. Originating from the vibrant culinary traditions of Italy, this salad captivates the senses with its medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tantalizing dressings. With its vibrant colors and textures, Italian Garden Pasta Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a culinary journey that transports you to the sun-drenched countryside of Italy.

This versatile dish can be customized to suit various dietary preferences and occasions, making it a perfect choice for potlucks, picnics, or a light and satisfying meal. From classic vinaigrette dressings to creamy pesto sauces, the recipes in this article offer a range of options to cater to different tastes. Whether you prefer a traditional approach or a contemporary twist, you'll find a recipe that suits your palate and culinary style.

As you explore the recipes, you'll discover a symphony of flavors and textures that come together to create a truly unforgettable dish. From the crisp crunch of fresh vegetables to the tender bite of cooked pasta, every element contributes to the overall harmony of this salad. With the addition of savory cheeses, tangy olives, and robust herbs, each bite promises a delightful burst of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

ITALIAN GARDEN PASTA SALAD

Italian Garden Pasta Salad image

I got the original recipe from Cooking Club of America. I changed the amounts due to my personal tastes as you may do. It doesn't HAVE to be refrigerated overnight, the only time I do that is just for my convienience. Amounts on salad ingredients may be adjusted or left out according to what you like. This is a great pasta salad and I'm always asked for the recipe when I take it to a potluck. Try it, you won't be sorry!8 (1 1/2-cup) servings.

Provided by Susan Dillard

Categories Potluck

Time 40m

Yield 8-12 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 22

Ingredients

1 lb penne
3/4 cup cubed colby cheese
3/4 cup cubed jalapeno pepper cheese
3/4 cup cubed provolone cheese
3/4 cup julienned genoa salami
4 plum tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup pitted black olives
1/2 cup sliced red onion
1/2 cup broccoli floret
1/4 cup chopped celery
2 (6 1/2 ounce) jars marinated artichokes, 1 undrained
1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomato packed in oil, and herbs
1 1/2 cups Italian dressing
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

Steps:

Cook penne according to package directions.
In medium bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, parsley, basil and oregano.
In large bowl, combine penne, Colby cheese, hot pepper cheese, Provolone cheese, salami, plum tomatoes, bell pepper, olives, onion, broccoli, celery, artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes.
Pour dressing over penne mixture; toss well.
Season with salt and pepper.
Refrigerate overnight.
Before serving, toss pasta.
Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

ITALIAN GARDEN PEPPERONI PASTA SALAD

Italian Garden Pepperoni Pasta Salad image

A summertime family favorite. Makes a large amount but will last several days in the fridge.

Provided by Lisa Huxhold

Categories Other Salads

Time 1h7m

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

12 oz multi-colored rotini
4 plum tomatoes chopped or grape tomatoes sliced in half
1 cucumber cut into bite sized pieces
2-3 sweet peppers colors to your choosing
1 medium sweet onion sliced into bite sized pieces
1 can(s) sliced black olives drained
6 oz package of sliced pepperoni
8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
8 oz creamy italian salad dressing
8 oz italian salad dressing

Steps:

1. Cook Rotini according to package directions, rinse and let cool. While pasta is cooking and cooling begin chopping the vegetables.
2. Chop onion, tomatoes, peppers, cucumber into bite sized pieces.
3. Add vegetables, olives, mozzarella and pepperoni to pasta. Pour dressings over the top and stir. Chill overnight.

ITALIAN GARDEN PASTA SALAD

ITALIAN GARDEN PASTA SALAD image

Categories Pasta Vegetable

Yield 6 people

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1 1/2 cup mostaccioli
3 Tbsp. tarragon vinegar
2 Tbsp. oil
1 tsp. fresh dill weed
3/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. dry mustard
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 cup (1 medium) chopped tomato
1 cup (1-2) medium sliced zucchini
1 cup pitted ripe olives
1/4 cup sliced green onions

Steps:

Cook the mostaccioli, drain and rinse under cold water. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, oil, dill weed, salt, mustard, pepper and garlic. In a large bowl combine the cooked mostaccioli, tomato, zucchini, olives and onions. Pour dressing over salad mixture, toss well to combine ingredients. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour to blend flavors.

Tips:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions.
Chop the vegetables and herbs into small pieces so they are easy to eat.
Marinate the vegetables in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving.
For a creamy pasta salad, add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
For a tangy pasta salad, add 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar or lemon juice to the dressing.
For a spicy pasta salad, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the dressing.
Serve the pasta salad immediately or chill it for later.

Conclusion:

Italian Garden Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing side dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a flavorful dressing, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit at your next party or potluck.