Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Let me tell you about my go-to dish for every picnic and potluck! This Tri Colored Pasta Salad is a real crowd-pleaser and so easy to whip up. It’s packed with bright, happy colors and the yummiest flavors that just scream summertime.
You can make it in a jiffy, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be looking for any excuse to make it again. It’s just that good!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad
This salad is the bee’s knees because it’s so fresh, colorful, and simple to put together. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!
- Super Quick: You can have this ready in under 30 minutes.
- So Colorful: The mix of pasta, peppers, and olives looks amazing.
- Crowd Favorite: Everyone, from kids to grown-ups, just loves it.
- Perfect for Parties: It’s my secret weapon for potlucks and BBQs.
- Easy to Change: You can add your own favorite goodies to it.
- YUM! Factor: The Italian dressing ties everything together perfectly.
If you love easy pasta salads, you should also check out my Italian Grinder Pasta Salad and this yummy Club Sandwich Pasta Salad. They are SO GOOD!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the simple things you’ll need to make this wonderful salad. For the exact amounts, take a peek at the recipe card below!
- Tri color pasta: I love using this for a fun pop of color.
- Mozzarella balls: These little cheese bites make the salad extra special.
- Olives: You can use your favorite kind for a salty kick.
- Roasted red peppers: I use the jarred kind to make things super easy.
- Italian Dressing: This brings all the yummy flavors together in one bowl.
How to Make Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Making this salad is as easy as pie! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful dish ready in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, pasta according to the package directions. You want it to be tender but still have a little bite. I usually use my big stockpot for this part.
Step 2: Drain and Cool
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly, which is exactly what you want for a cold pasta salad.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
Now for the fun part! In your large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mozzarella balls, olives, and roasted red peppers. Gently toss everything together so all the goodies are mixed up nicely.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
Finally, pour your favorite Italian dressing over the salad. Give it one last good toss to make sure everything is coated. And that’s it! Your delicious pasta salad is ready to ENJOY!!!
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
Here are a few of my little secrets to make your pasta salad taste out of this world. It’s all about the little things!
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: You want it al dente, so it holds its shape.
- Rinse with Cold Water: This is key to a great cold pasta salad.
- Let It Marinate: Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes so the flavors can mingle.
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh mozzarella balls makes a huge difference.
- Add a Little Extra: Sometimes I add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for more flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this salad your own! It’s fun to mix things up and try new things.
- Add Some Meat: Toss in some salami or pepperoni for a heartier salad.
- Switch Up the Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or artichoke hearts are great additions.
- Try Different Cheeses: Cubed cheddar or provolone would be delicious in here.
- Make Your Own Dressing: A simple vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar works wonders.
- Add Some Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can brighten up the flavors.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This salad is a fantastic make-ahead dish, which is perfect for party planning. You can make it the day before you need it. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and yummy for up to 3 days.
If it seems a little dry after being in the fridge, just add a little splash more of Italian dressing before you serve it. That will freshen it right up and make it taste just as good as when you first made it.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Definitely! This salad is perfect for making a day in advance.
How long will this pasta salad last?
It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! Any short pasta like rotini or penne will work great.
What can I serve with this pasta salad?
It’s wonderful with grilled chicken, burgers, or just on its own.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add things like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes.
Is this recipe good for picky eaters?
It sure is! It’s a simple, kid-friendly recipe that everyone loves.
Can I make this gluten-free?
You bet! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead.
What if I don’t have Italian dressing?
A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and red wine vinegar works too.
Can I add meat to this salad?
Yes, diced salami or pepperoni would be a delicious addition.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Just be sure not to overcook it and rinse it with cold water.
Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 box (12 oz) tri color pasta
- 8 ounces mozzarella balls cut in half
- 1 cup olives cut in half
- 1 cup roasted red peppers chopped
- 1 cup Italian Dressing
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook tri-color pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until it is al dente.
- Drain and cool: Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold running water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mozzarella balls, olives, and roasted red peppers.
- Dress and toss: Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
- Chill and serve: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before you serve it.
Notes
- Feel free to add other fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers.
- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- If making ahead, you might want to add a bit more dressing before serving.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
