Salads

SUMMER PASTA SALAD

By Emma
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SUMMER PASTA SALAD featuring crisp garden greens, vibrant crisp vegetables, and light dressing sheen, finished with fresh cracked pepper and lemon wedges, served in a rustic ceramic dish.
Table-ready SUMMER PASTA SALAD: featuring a crisp garden greens, vibrant crisp vegetables, and light dressing sheen, accented with fresh cracked pepper and lemon wedges.

Recipe Overview

CategorySalads
CuisineItalian
MethodNo-Cook / Chill
Prep Time13 mins
Cook Time0 mins
DifficultyEasy

Introduction

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor — this SUMMER PASTA SALAD is anything but boring. Loaded with colorful ingredients and a delicious dressing, it's the kind of salad you'll actually crave. Perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or even a satisfying dinner on warm evenings. Each bite delivers a mix of textures and flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients
  • Fresh, healthy, and perfect for meal prep
  • Impressive enough for guests, easy enough for everyday
  • Tested and perfected with foolproof step-by-step techniques

SUMMER PASTA SALAD

A foolproof, family-favorite recipe tested and perfected for incredible flavor with simple preparation.

SUMMER PASTA SALAD - crisp garden greens with fresh cracked pepper and lemon wedges
Table-ready SUMMER PASTA SALAD: featuring a crisp garden greens, vibrant crisp vegetables, and light dressing sheen, accented with fresh cracked pepper and lemon wedges.
Prep Time 13 mins
Cook Time 0 mins
Total Time 13 mins
Servings 4 servings
Calories 335 kcal
Rating ★★★★★ 4.9 (68)

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta of choice, cooked al dente
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, and thyme)

Instructions

1
Chop & Prep Produce

Wash, dry thoroughly, and chop all fresh vegetables, greens, and proteins into bite-sized pieces.

2
Whisk the Dressing

In a small mason jar or bowl, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, acid (lemon juice or vinegar), salt, pepper, and herbs until emulsified.

3
Toss & Plate

Combine ingredients in a large salad bowl, drizzle the fresh dressing over top just before serving, and gently toss to coat evenly.

Nutrition Facts
4 servings per recipe
Serving size 1 serving
Amount per serving
Calories 335
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 25 g32%
Saturated Fat 4 g20%
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 40 mg13%
Sodium 435 mg19%
Total Carb. 51 g19%
Dietary Fiber 2 g7%
Total Sugars 4 g
Protein 27 g54%
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Chef's Note: Store any leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture and moisture.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Prep all ingredients ahead and assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
  • Dress the salad right before serving to keep greens crisp.
  • Use the freshest seasonal produce for the best flavor.
  • Toast nuts or seeds to add extra crunch and depth.
Emma – Head Recipe Developer & Food Editor at Biteova

About Emma

Recipe Developer & Food Editor

Hi, I'm Emma! I create simple, foolproof recipes made with everyday ingredients. Every dish is tested and loved in my home kitchen so you can cook with total confidence.

More about Emma →

Community Reviews & Ratings

★★★★★
4.9 / 5
Based on 68 verified ratings
SM
Sarah Miller April 22, 2026
★★★★★

Turned out delicious and so easy to follow! The flavors were perfectly balanced and my whole family asked for seconds. Definitely adding this to our regular rotation.

DK
David K. April 22, 2026
★★★★★

Followed Emma's instructions exactly and it came out wonderful. Simple pantry ingredients with restaurant-quality flavor. Highly recommended!

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