A great pasta salad has a way of bringing everyone back for another scoop, especially at a backyard BBQ. Whether you like creamy classics, colorful veggie-packed favorites, or bold flavors with plenty of fresh herbs, these recipes are easy to make ahead and perfect for feeding a crowd. This collection of 10 pasta salads is full of reliable favorites that pair well with grilled meats, burgers, and all your favorite summer dishes.
Italian Grinder Pasta Salad
You’re going to love this Italian Grinder Pasta Salad that has all of your favorite Italian sub sandwich toppings. Salty salami, pepperoncini, ham and provolone cheese, tossed together with tender pasta and a creamy garlic dressing. One bite and you’ll understand why this is destined to become your new potluck staple. Get the recipe
Taco Pasta Salad
Imagine all your favorite taco night flavors, seasoned beef, melty cheese, crunchy Doritos, tossed together with pasta in one big, colorful bowl. It’s the kind of dish that disappears at every potluck before you even get a chance to take a second helping. Get the recipe
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad has that perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and smoky that makes you go back for “just one more bite” until the bowl is somehow empty. Picture tender pasta twirls tangled up with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a ranch-y dressing so good you’ll want to lick the spoon. Get the recipe
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad combines tender pasta, chicken, crisp celery, blue cheese, and a creamy buffalo dressing for a side dish with just the right amount of heat. It’s easy to make ahead, making it a great choice for potlucks, cookouts, lunches, or meal prep. Top it with crumbled blue cheese or sliced green onions for even more flavor. Get the recipe.
Cucumber Pasta Salad
Creamy Cucumber Pasta Salad is a refreshing side dish that’s a perfect accompaniment to your summer main dish. You’ll usually see this salad without the pasta, which is fine if that’s how you like it, but we think the chewy pasta adds an extra tasty element. Get the recipe
Pesto Corn Pasta Salad
Pesto Corn Pasta Salad with Bacon is a departure from your typical pasta salad and we love it! It’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying side dish for any meal. The combination of creamy pesto, smoky bacon, and tender pasta creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Get the recipe
Amish Pasta Salad
This Amish Pasta Salad is a classic side dish that’s creamy, tangy, and full of texture. With tender macaroni, crisp vegetables, and a simple dressing, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again for gatherings or easy lunches. Get the recipe
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad
Dill Pickle Pasta Salad is one of those sides that grabs your attention right away. It’s creamy, tangy, and loaded with that unmistakable pickle flavor in every bite. If you’re someone who always reaches for an extra pickle on the plate, this is going to be hard to resist. Get the recipe
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad takes everything you love about a classic Caesar and turns it into a hearty, satisfying meal. You’ve got tender pasta, juicy chicken, crisp romaine, and crunchy croutons all tossed in a creamy, garlicky dressing. Get the recipe
Mediterranean Orzo
This delightful Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This salad features tender orzo pasta tossed with an array of sun-ripened vegetables, briny olives, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, resulting in a symphony of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and light. Get the recipe
Angela’s passion for discovering and experimenting with new flavors and recipes is at the heart of her culinary philosophy. Residing in a quaint Oregon town, she finds joy and inspiration in her kitchen. Angela has a lot of expertise in cooking and she eagerly shares her discoveries and unique creations with you.