Easy Pasta Salad (Cold & Simple)🥗❄️ Fast, Fresh, and Fork-Ready From the Fridge

Easy Pasta Salad (Cold & Simple) is your go-to dish when you need something quick, flexible, and fresh. Toss together cooked pasta, a few chopped vegetables, and a zippy dressing — that’s it. Serve it chilled and let the simplicity speak for itself.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup cucumber, chopped
• ½ cup shredded carrots or diced bell pepper
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2–3 tbsp fresh parsley or green onion
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Simple Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp vinegar (white wine, red wine, or apple cider)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano
• Optional: pinch of sugar or honey

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Shake off any excess water.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

Whisk together oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, herbs, and optional sweetener until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

In a large bowl, combine pasta, veggies, and herbs. Pour over the dressing and toss until everything is coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let flavors develop. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Variations

• Add crumbled feta, cheddar cubes, or olives
• Stir in chickpeas or grilled chicken for protein
• Use store-bought Italian or ranch dressing for speed
• Mix in baby spinach, arugula, or kale for greens

Pro Tips

• Undercook pasta slightly for better texture when cold
• Rinse pasta well — helps keep it light and separate
• Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days
• Add a splash of oil or vinegar before serving if it looks dry

Final Thoughts

Easy Pasta Salad (Cold & Simple) is the effortless classic — bright, cool, and totally flexible. Whether it’s a potluck, lunchbox, or quick dinner side, it’s always the right answer.

Boil it. Toss it. Chill it. Done. 🥗❄️🍴