26 Easy Cold Pasta Salad Recipes
When the weather heats up, there’s nothing quite like a chilled pasta salad to bring a refreshing and flavorful touch to your summer meals. Whether you’re planning a BBQ, a picnic, or just a light weeknight dinner, cold pasta salads are the perfect dish to keep you cool while satisfying your cravings.
They are versatile, easy to make, and can be customized to suit every taste — whether you prefer creamy, tangy, or zesty dressings, or you’re more into Mediterranean, Mexican, or classic flavors.
In this roundup of 26 cold pasta salad recipes, you’ll find everything from vibrant vegetable-packed salads to protein-rich options featuring chicken, bacon, or seafood. These salads are packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors that make them not only a great side dish but also a satisfying main course.
With simple ingredients like pasta, vegetables, cheese, and delicious dressings, you can whip up a pasta salad that’s both tasty and visually appealing in no time.
26 Yummy Cold Pasta Salad Recipes
1. Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the stove for long, this cold pasta salad comes together quickly and is easy to prep ahead. It is ideal for outdoor entertaining, beach picnics, or lunchboxes, and it doubles as complete meals or satisfying sides.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a refreshing make-ahead dish, this cold pasta salad is sure to become your summer staple.
2. Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
This easy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad brings big flavor with minimal effort — just what we love in a great summer dish. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again when you want something bold, tangy, and refreshing.
Using the oil from the jarred sun-dried tomatoes as a base for the dressing adds incredible depth and richness, so every bite is packed with flavor without the need for a long list of ingredients.
What makes this salad even better is how quick and convenient it is. With just a few ingredients to chop and a short cook time, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for those busy summer evenings or last-minute gatherings.
The sun-dried tomatoes bring a naturally sweet and savory punch that pairs perfectly with pasta, fresh herbs, and your favorite mix-ins like mozzarella, olives, or arugula.
3. Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Skip the boxed mixes — this Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is all about fresh flavor and easy prep! Made with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a generous dose of creamy ranch dressing, it’s a fun, flavor-packed side dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next summer BBQ or picnic. The best part? You can throw it together with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and savory. The ranch dressing coats every bite of tender pasta, while the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and richness. Add-ins like cherry tomatoes, green onions, or even a handful of peas can make it even more colorful and crave-worthy. It’s a dish that both kids and adults will keep coming back to.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad also makes a great make-ahead option — just chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping lunches for the week, this hearty, crowd-pleasing pasta salad is a delicious way to level up any summer spread.
4. Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad is the ultimate fusion of bold flavor and creamy comfort. Inspired by the classic street food favorite, this salad takes sweet corn and tosses it with pasta, a tangy, zesty dressing, and all the signature toppings — think crumbled cheese, chili powder, and a splash of lime. It’s rich, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying.
What makes this dish a standout is how effortlessly it comes together. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a crowd-pleasing salad ready in no time. The creamy dressing ties everything together, balancing the sweetness of the corn with the savory heat of the spices for that perfect summer bite.
Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, potluck, or just craving something different for dinner, this Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad adds a fun, flavorful twist to your menu.
5. Pasta Salad Recipe
This classic Pasta Salad recipe is a must-have for any summer gathering. With crisp veggies, savory pepperoni, chunks of cheese, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing, it’s a refreshing and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything off the grill. It’s colorful, hearty, and always a hit at potlucks, picnics, or backyard BBQs.
What’s great about this pasta salad is how customizable it is — you can easily mix in your favorite vegetables, swap the protein, or make it vegetarian. The homemade Italian dressing adds a bold tanginess that brings everything together, soaking into the pasta and making every bite irresistible.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or prepping it ahead for weekday lunches, this pasta salad is quick to make and even better the next day. It’s the kind of simple, satisfying recipe that belongs in every summer recipe rotation.
6. Easy Macaroni Salad
This creamy Macaroni Salad recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and crunch, making it a standout side dish for any summer occasion. With tender elbow macaroni, crisp vegetables, and bits of cheese all coated in a smooth, flavorful dressing, it’s both satisfying and refreshing.
What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity — you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something that tastes incredible. It comes together quickly and can be prepped ahead of time, making it ideal for cookouts, picnics, or family dinners. The combo of textures and flavors means there’s something in every bite to love.
7. Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad brings the bold, spicy flavors you love into a cool and creamy dish that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Tender pasta is mixed with shredded chicken, crunchy veggies, and a tangy, creamy buffalo sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. Topped with crumbled bleu cheese, every bite is rich, flavorful, and full of texture.
This salad is a fun twist on classic pasta salads, making it a crowd-pleasing option for game day parties, summer BBQs, or potlucks. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, yet versatile enough to be a standout side that everyone will be raving about.
8. Herbed Cheese and Veggie Macaroni Salad
If you’re a fan of classic macaroni salad, get ready to take things up a notch with this herbed cheese version. It’s creamy, flavorful, and loaded with cheesy goodness and fresh herbs that make every bite stand out. Made with everyday ingredients, this salad brings a touch of comfort and elegance to your summer table.
This herbed macaroni salad is the ideal side for BBQs, picnics, or any warm-weather gathering. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can even be enjoyed on its own. The combination of tender pasta, a rich creamy dressing, and aromatic herbs makes it a dish that both kids and adults will ask for again and again.
9. Caprese Pasta Salad
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian Caprese, blending juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella into a refreshing and satisfying pasta salad. It captures all the signature flavors you love in a traditional Caprese and turns them into a vibrant, easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for summer.
Whether you’re hosting a cookout, packing a picnic, or looking for a light lunch option, this salad fits the bill. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy dressing creates a dish that feels elegant yet effortless, exactly what you want during warm weather.
10. Dill Pickle Salad with Pasta
This Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is a must-try for any pickle enthusiast! It combines the bold, tangy flavor of dill pickles with tender pasta, chunks of cheese, and a creamy, zesty dressing that ties it all together. The result is a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, potluck, or picnic, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s easy to throw together and adds a fun twist to the usual pasta salad lineup. The balance of creamy and tangy elements makes it stand out from the crowd.
11. Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad
This Cashew Chicken Pasta Salad is a flavor-packed dish that’s as fun as it is delicious. With a mix of tender pasta, juicy chicken, sweet fruits, crunchy cashews, and a creamy dressing, each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The balance of savory, sweet, and salty flavors makes this salad an exciting addition to any meal.
Perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or potlucks, this salad is both hearty and refreshing. The creamy dressing ties everything together, while the cashews add a satisfying crunch that makes this pasta salad anything but ordinary. It’s a great way to elevate your standard pasta salad and introduce new flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.
12. Summer Pesto Pasta Salad (Gluten Free)
This gluten-free Summer Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that will steal the show at any gathering. Packed with fresh tomatoes, crunchy walnuts, and nutty Parmesan, it’s tossed in a rich and creamy basil pesto dressing that brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony. The combination of fresh flavors and satisfying textures makes it the ultimate summer salad.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement grilled meats or a standalone salad for a light lunch, this pesto pasta salad is versatile and easy to make. The gluten-free pasta ensures everyone can enjoy it, while the pesto adds a burst of herby goodness that elevates the dish. The walnuts give a nice crunch, while the Parmesan adds a savory touch that enhances every bite.
13. Crab Pasta Salad Recipe
This Crab Pasta Salad is the ideal dish for anyone looking to indulge in a luxurious seafood meal without breaking the bank. With tender pasta and succulent crab meat, it combines the best of both worlds: quick, easy preparation and a rich, seafood flavor that’s perfect for summer.
Packed with fresh ingredients and a creamy dressing that complements the crab, this salad is a refreshing addition to any picnic, BBQ, or family dinner. It’s light yet satisfying, with just the right balance of creamy, tangy, and seafood flavors to make every bite a treat.
The beauty of this recipe is that it uses affordable ingredients, yet still delivers the gourmet taste of a restaurant-quality dish.
14. Steak Pasta Salad
This Steak Pasta Salad is the ultimate dish for anyone craving a hearty and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. With tender pieces of steak, crisp asparagus, salty bacon, and tangy Parmigiano Reggiano, it’s a satisfying salad that combines bold flavors in every bite. The creamy dressing ties it all together, adding richness and depth to the dish.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose leftover steak into something new and exciting.
15. Spaghetti Salad
This Spaghetti Salad is a fun and unique twist on traditional pasta salads, packed with crunchy vegetables, rich Parmesan cheese, and tossed in a homemade, zesty Italian dressing. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish stand out, with the freshness of the veggies perfectly complementing the savory bite of the cheese and the tangy dressing.
Perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, or any time you’re entertaining a crowd, this salad is easy to prepare and sure to be a hit. It’s a refreshing and colorful addition to any spread, and the flavors only get better after marinating for a little while, making it a great make-ahead option.
16. Suddenly Pasta Salad Bacon & Ranch Copycat Recipe
This copycat recipe for Suddenly Pasta Salad Bacon & Ranch is a game-changer! It tastes even better than the boxed version, with the perfect combination of creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and tender pasta. It’s a quick and easy dish that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights, BBQs, or casual gatherings.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this homemade version that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The creamy dressing and savory bacon elevate this pasta salad, making it even more irresistible than the store-bought variety. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or extra seasonings to suit your taste.
17. BLT Pasta Salad
This BLT Pasta Salad takes all the classic flavors of a traditional BLT sandwich and turns them into a cool, refreshing pasta dish perfect for any gathering. The crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes come together with al dente pasta, creating a satisfying salad that’s both comforting and light.
Tossed in a creamy ranch dressing, each bite is packed with flavor and texture that will keep you coming back for more.
Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, BBQ, or potluck, this BLT Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly easy to make. The combination of creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies makes this dish irresistible. It’s the kind of salad that everyone will be asking for the recipe!
18. Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad
Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad is a fun and flavorful twist on the classic macaroni salad, combining the rich creaminess of deviled eggs with tender pasta for a satisfying dish. This recipe is super easy to make and offers the perfect balance of flavors with creamy mayo, tangy mustard, and a hint of relish, just like a traditional deviled egg.
The result is a smooth, indulgent macaroni salad that’s packed with the familiar tastes of deviled eggs but in a refreshing, pasta-based form. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a picnic, or a family gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd favorite.
Quick to prepare and incredibly tasty, this Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad will be your new go-to side dish for gatherings. It’s simple, delicious, and absolutely perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of deviled eggs, but in a fresh, pasta form!
19. Orzo Salad with Vegetables and Feta
This Greek Orzo Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish that’s as delicious as it is versatile. Packed with fresh cucumbers, chickpeas, tomatoes, red onion, and creamy feta cheese, it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Tossed in a flavorful herb dressing, this salad is perfect for adding a fresh touch to any meal, whether as a light main course or a refreshing side dish.
The combination of crunchy vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and tangy feta creates a satisfying and wholesome dish that’s sure to impress. The orzo pasta gives the salad a hearty texture, while the herb dressing ties everything together with its aromatic and zesty notes.
This Greek Orzo Salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile — whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, picnic, or family dinner, it’s sure to be a hit.
20. Hawaiian Style Loaded Tuna Macaroni Salad
Hawaiian Style Loaded Tuna Macaroni Salad is a flavorful and hearty dish that brings a tropical twist to the classic macaroni salad. Packed with tender tuna, hard-boiled eggs, crunchy carrots, celery, and onions, this salad offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
The creamy dressing ties everything together, making it a refreshing yet filling dish that can be enjoyed as a side or even as a quick mid-day snack.
The combination of tuna and fresh vegetables gives this macaroni salad a unique, savory taste with a slight crunch from the veggies. The hard-boiled eggs add richness, while the creamy dressing brings it all together.
This salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate protein and fiber into your meal, making it perfect for lunch or as a side dish to complement any summer BBQ or picnic.
21. Hawaiian Tuna Mac Salad
This Hawaiian Tuna Mac Salad is a protein-packed twist on the classic creamy pasta salad, making it a delicious and satisfying dish for any occasion. Combining tuna with tender pasta and a simple mayonnaise-based dressing, it strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and tang that elevates the flavor profile.
The creamy texture of the dressing complements the protein from the tuna, making each bite both rich and filling.
The addition of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions adds a pleasant crunch, while the hard-boiled eggs enhance the creaminess and provide extra richness.
The sweetness from the dressing balances perfectly with the savory flavors of the tuna, creating a harmonious and flavorful salad that everyone will love. It’s a great dish for picnics, BBQs, or even as a meal prep option for busy days.
22. Tortellini Pasta Salad
Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that makes the perfect addition to any BBQ, potluck, or summer gathering. The combination of tender, cheese-filled tortellini with fresh, crisp vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes creates a colorful and satisfying salad. Tossed in a zesty dressing, this dish is bursting with flavor and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The chewy tortellini acts as the perfect base, absorbing the tangy dressing while adding texture and heartiness to the salad. The vegetables bring a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta, making each bite a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a light main, this pasta salad is incredibly versatile and always a hit.
23. Orzo Pasta Salad with Chicken and Roasted Vegetables
Orzo Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Roasted Vegetables is the ultimate one-bowl meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. This dish is bursting with flavor from perfectly roasted vegetables like zucchini, red onion, red bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes.
The addition of grilled chicken makes it hearty and filling, turning what would be a simple side into a complete meal. Topped with crumbled feta cheese and fresh dill, this salad is a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors.
The orzo pasta is light yet chewy, absorbing all the flavors from the roasted vegetables and chicken, while the feta adds a creamy, slightly salty richness that ties everything together. The fresh dill enhances the brightness of the vegetables, making each bite feel refreshing and flavorful.
It’s the ideal dish for meal prepping, as you can easily make a large batch and store it in the fridge for a few days, making it a perfect go-to lunch or dinner.
24. Taco Pasta Salad
This Easy Taco Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together all your favorite Mexican-inspired ingredients in one easy-to-make recipe. With zesty taco seasoning, crunchy veggies, tender pasta, and a creamy dressing, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck, BBQ, or serving it as a side for dinner, this pasta salad is always a hit.
What makes this taco pasta salad stand out is its versatility and bold flavors. From the tangy dressing to the pop of fresh ingredients like bell peppers, tomatoes, and corn, each bite bursts with the delicious taste of tacos. You can even add in some seasoned ground beef or chicken to make it a full meal, or keep it vegetarian for a lighter option.
25. Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad
This Creamy Salmon Asparagus Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of light yet hearty ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for the spring and summer months.
Packed with fresh asparagus, protein-rich canned or fresh salmon, hard-boiled eggs, and pasta, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly filling. The creamy lemon dill dressing ties everything together, creating a refreshing yet rich flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more.
What makes this salad stand out is its balance of flavors and textures. The crispy asparagus adds a satisfying crunch, while the tender salmon and creamy dressing provide a luxurious texture that perfectly complements the soft pasta and eggs.
The bright, citrusy kick of lemon and the aromatic dill bring a fresh vibrancy that makes this dish perfect for outdoor gatherings or a light dinner.
26. Herbed Bacon Macaroni Salad
If you’re craving a fresh take on the classic macaroni salad, this Herbed Bacon Macaroni Salad is the perfect recipe to elevate your summer gatherings. With its vibrant herb-infused dressing, a zesty citrus kick, and the smoky richness of bacon, this dish adds a whole new layer of flavor to the traditional favorite.
The combination of fresh herbs and tangy dressing creates a refreshing contrast to the savory bacon and creamy pasta, making each bite a delightful experience.
What sets this macaroni salad apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The bacon provides that irresistible crunch and smokiness, while the herby dressing brightens the dish, making it both satisfying and refreshing.
It’s easy to make and perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual BBQs to more formal summer events, ensuring that it will quickly become a crowd favorite.