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Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad

Delicious Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad for a Refreshing Feast

This Summer Vegetable Pasta Salad is a quick and vibrant dish, perfect for lunches or gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Pasta Any short pasta like bowtie, penne, or fusilli works beautifully as the base.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; sweet gems that add vibrant color.
  • 1 Yellow Squash Sliced; zucchini is a great substitute.
  • 1 Zucchini Sliced; keep the skin on for added nutrients.
  • 1 large head Broccoli Cut into florets; fresh offers crunch.
  • 0.5 medium Red Onion Diced or sliced; swap for green onions for a milder note.
  • 2/3 cup Red Bell Pepper Diced; feel free to use any color pepper.
  • 1 can (2.25 oz) Sliced Black Olives Drained; offer a salty contrast.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Adds creaminess and umami flavor.
  • 2 Tbsp Freshly Minced Parsley Infuses freshness; basil or cilantro can create a different flavor.
For the Dressing
  • 2/3 cup Italian Dressing Tangy dressing for flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances flavors.
  • 1/4 tsp Paprika Adds smokiness and vibrant color.
  • 1/4 tsp Kosher Sea Salt Elevates flavors.
  • 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper Introduces a welcome spice.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Medium Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring enough water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt, then stir in 1 lb. of pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and rinse briefly under cold water.
  2. Chop and slice the fresh vegetables: halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, slice 1 yellow squash and 1 zucchini, and cut 1 large head of broccoli into florets. Dice ½ medium red onion and chop 2/3 cup of red bell pepper. Place all vegetables in a mixing bowl.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine 2/3 cup of Italian dressing with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan, 2 tablespoons of parsley, and spices. Whisk until well blended.
  4. Return the drained pasta to the large pot and toss with the prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over and stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best flavor and presentation. Consider making a homemade dressing for a healthier option.

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