Looking for a vibrant, flavorful pasta salad that’s always a hit at potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings? This Awesome Pasta Salad is packed with fresh veggies, tender pasta, and a zesty homemade dressing for the ultimate side dish!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 12 oz (340g) rotini or tri-color pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pepperoni slices, quartered (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
  2. Prep the veggies while the pasta cooks—chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and olives.
  3. Make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine everything in a large bowl—add cooled pasta, veggies, pepperoni (if using), cheese, and parsley. Pour dressing over and toss well.
  5. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors blend.

Tips & Variations

🌿 Vegetarian? Skip the pepperoni and add chickpeas for extra protein.
🧀 Creamier? Stir in 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
🌶 Spicy kick? Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

This Awesome Pasta Salad stays fresh for 3 days in the fridge—perfect for meal prep! 🍝🥗