Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad is a refreshing, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and busy weeknights. With tri-color pasta, crisp vegetables, pepperoni, and a tangy dressing, it’s both colorful and flavorful.

Italian Pasta Salad

This classic pasta salad brings together fresh broccoli, sweet cherry tomatoes, black olives, and savory mini pepperoni. The pasta gets tossed with half the dressing right after draining, allowing it to soak up flavor without losing texture. The rest of the dressing is added right before serving, along with parmesan cheese.

This recipe is ideal for meal prep, travels well, and holds up in the fridge for a few days without getting mushy. This is one of those recipes you’ll make over and over again. It is familiar, delicious, and a classic addition to any BBQ spread.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals – Flavors deepen as it chills, so it tastes better with time.
• Colorful and Textured – A mix of fresh, crunchy, juicy, and chewy ingredients.
• Great for a Crowd – Easily doubled or tripled for large gatherings.
• Balanced Flavor – Tangy, herby, salty, and fresh in each bite.
• No Rinsing Pasta – Keeps the starch for better dressing absorption.

Tuna Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.

Ingredients

• Tri-Color Pasta – Adds color and holds dressing well with its slightly rough surface.
• Broccoli Florets – Crunchy, fresh vegetable that contrasts nicely with the softer components.
• Mini Pepperoni – Adds a savory, salty kick that boosts overall flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, balancing the saltiness of the dressing and pepperoni.
• Black Olives – Briny and earthy, sliced for easy bites.
• Shredded Parmesan – Finishes the salad with a salty, nutty edge.
• Italian Dressing – Tangy, herby base that ties the salad together. I use store-bought, but you can make your own, too!
• Dry Italian Seasoning – Extra flavor boost that complements the dressing and veggies.

Pesto Chicken Pasta

How To Make Italian Pasta Salad

Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. While water heats, prep broccoli into bite-sized pieces, halve cherry tomatoes, and slice black olives.
3. Boil pasta until al dente. Drain well, but do not rinse.
4. While still warm, toss pasta with broccoli, tomatoes, olives, half the Italian dressing, and dry seasoning.
5. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve. Just before serving, add the remaining dressing and parmesan.

Pasta Primavera

FAQ

How long can I store this pasta salad?

Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it’s ideal for prepping the day before. Add parmesan and final dressing right before serving.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Rotini, farfalle, or penne work well. Just avoid very smooth or delicate shapes.

Are there good substitutions?

Swap mini pepperoni for diced salami or omit for a vegetarian version. Use mozzarella pearls instead of parmesan if preferred.

Chicken and Spinach Pasta

Serve This With…

• Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken or Steak
• Garlic Bread
• Roasted Vegetable Platter
• Smoked Party Ribs

This Italian pasta salad is flavorful, flexible, and a crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a practical choice for any occasion where you want something satisfying and easy to serve.

PIN FOR LATER!