12+ Best Pasta Salad Recipes - Healthy Fitness Meals

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These pasta salad recipes are fresh, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick side for dinner, something to bring to a gathering, or a make-ahead meal, these recipes are full of flavor and made with simple ingredients everyone will enjoy.

I make pasta salads all the time, especially when life gets busy, or we’re heading to a get-together. They’re easy to throw together, and I can usually make them ahead, which makes things so much easier. I also love that you can switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand, so it never feels repetitive.

Tips from my kitchen

Cook the pasta just right: Salt your water well and cook until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy.
Make sure you cool the pasta properly: Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water or let it cool before adding the other ingredients.
Don’t skip seasoning: Pasta needs salt, citrus, and flavor to really stand out.
Let it sit: Pasta salad tastes better after chilling for at least 30 minutes. They are even better the next day.

I’ve put together a list of my favorite simple, easy pasta salad recipes. If you like salads in general, then you will like these salad recipes.

Chicken Pasta Salad Recipes

These chicken pasta salads are filling, easy to make, and perfect for a complete meal. With lean protein and fresh ingredients, they’re great for meal prep, quick lunches, or simple dinners.

chicken pasta salad in a round brown bowl with lettuce, pasta, chicken, and tomatoes.

5 from 2 votes

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

With vegetables, chicken, and homemade dressing, this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is the perfect cross between your favorite salad and a pasta salad.

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pesto pasta in a round bowl with tomatoes, chicken, basil garnish.

5 from 14 votes

Creamy Chicken and Pesto Pasta Salad

One of my favorite pasta salads of all time is this Creamy chicken and Pesto pasta salad. Loaded with chicken for a wholesome lunch or dinner option.

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5 from 2 votes

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

This Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad will be a weeknight favorite! Crunchy chicken tender pieces on top of golden pasta and veggies.

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5 from 3 votes

Greek Chicken Pasta Salad

Delicious Greek Chicken Pasta Salad packed with juicy tomatoes, fresh cucumbers, zippy red onion, smoky kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese.

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Creamy Pasta Salad Recipes

These creamy pasta salads are rich, comforting, and always a crowd favorite. Made with lighter dressings and simple ingredients, they’re perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or everyday meals.

Mexican-style pasta salad in a round bowl, topped with shredded cheese and lime wedges.

4.63 from 8 votes

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is loaded with flavor, made with roasted corn, jalapeño, and peppers, irresistible, creamy, and tossed in a delicious sauce.

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5 from 1 vote

Hawaiian Mac Salad

This Hawaiian mac salad is creamy, tangy, and packed with simple, fresh ingredients. It’s a family favorite in our house and comes together quickly, making it perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or just a laid-back dinner at home.

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4 from 1 vote

Classic Macaroni Salad

This classic macaroni salad is a healthy, easy-to-make, and comforting vegetarian side dish recipe that everyone will love. Perfect for any occasion and great to add to your kids’ lunches. Ready in under 30 minutes.

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5 from 1 vote

Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

This Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is creamy, tangy, and full of bold pickle flavor with sharp cheddar, red onion, and plenty of fresh dill. It’s a perfect side dish for potlucks, summer BBQs, or easy weekday lunches, and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

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5 from 1 vote

Tuna Macaroni Salad

This Cold Tuna Macaroni Salad is easy to make, so creamy, so delicious, and loaded with goodness. Tossed in with a homemade dressing, this easy macaroni salad is perfect for potlucks and BBQs.

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Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipes

These vegetarian pasta salads are fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. Loaded with veggies, herbs, and simple dressings, they’re perfect as a light meal or an easy side dish.

top view orzo salad with a variety of veggie in a round white bowl

5 from 1 vote

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Light and flavorful Greek Orzo Pasta Salad is so easy to make with crisp veggies, savory olives, fresh herbs, and tangy feta crumbles, all tossed in a simple vinaigrette.

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spaghetti salad with veggies and olives in a round white bowl.

5 from 1 vote

Cold Spaghetti Salad

Making this cold Spaghetti Salad has been one of my favorite recipes. It is so simple, packed with good-for-you ingredients, and so flavorful. Easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes.

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5 from 2 votes

Vegetarian Pasta Salad

This easy and simple vegetarian pasta salad comes together in no time. Loaded with veggies and tossed in a delicious Italian vinaigrette dressing.

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Pasta salad with beans and veggies in a round wooden bowl.

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Southwest Pasta Salad

This Southwest Pasta Salad is a delicious, easy-to-make vegetarian pasta salad that can be made vegan.

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Common Questions

What pasta works best for pasta salad?

Short pasta like rotini, bowtie, penne, or shells works best because it holds the dressing well.

Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead. Just refresh with a little extra dressing before serving.

How long does pasta salad last in the fridge?

Most pasta salads last 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

How do I keep pasta salad from drying out?

Add a little extra dressing before serving, and make sure you store it tightly covered in the fridge.

More Recipe Roundups

Thank you so much for being here and for cooking along with me. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment and rating below.