This Italian Confetti Pasta Salad combines tri-colored pasta with crisp, colorful veggies and a tangy Italian dressing for a fresh, flavorful side. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and textures, this pasta salad is easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep. It’s a delightful mix of taste and color that makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
Italian Confetti Pasta Salad
I love making this pasta salad because it’s simple, bright, and packed with a variety of flavors. The tri-colored pasta and vibrant veggies make it visually appealing, while the tangy Italian dressing brings everything together. This dish is also incredibly versatile—enjoy it as a side, a light lunch, or even add protein to make it a full meal.
Serve this pasta salad with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe for a satisfying meal or pair with Classic Garlic Bread Recipe for a complete Mediterranean-inspired spread.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Confetti Pasta Salad Recipe
- Colorful and Fresh: The mix of colorful vegetables and pasta makes it visually appealing.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients with minimal cooking.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Great for BBQs, potlucks, and picnics.
- Versatile and Customizable: Adjust the vegetables and add-ins to suit your taste.
Main Ingredients for Italian Confetti Pasta Salad
- Tri-Colored Pasta – Adds color and variety; rotini, fusilli, or bow-tie pasta works well.
- Bell Peppers – Sweet and crunchy, adding brightness to the dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a juicy, slightly tangy element.
- Cucumber – Refreshes the salad with a cool, crisp texture.
- Italian Dressing – Ties everything together with a zesty, herby flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Italian Confetti Pasta Salad Recipe
Here’s how to make this fresh and colorful Italian pasta salad step by step:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of tri-colored pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
- Tip: Rinsing the pasta helps cool it down and removes excess starch, preventing it from sticking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Dice 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 green bell pepper. Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and chop 1 cup of cucumber.
- Pro Tip: For a more flavorful salad, remove seeds from cucumbers to reduce excess water.
- Combine Ingredients in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, diced peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, 1/2 cup sliced black olives, and 1/4 cup chopped red onion.
- Variation: Add 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella or feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor.
- Add the Dressing: Pour 1/2 cup Italian dressing over the salad, stirring to coat all ingredients evenly. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Tip: Use a high-quality Italian dressing, or make your own for extra freshness.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra color and flavor.
Extra Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, pepperoni, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
- Try Different Vegetables: Add zucchini, artichoke hearts, or shredded carrots.
- How to Store: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make it Ahead: This salad gets better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
Health Benefits of Italian Confetti Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables. Using whole-grain or gluten-free pasta can make it even healthier, and the olive oil in the dressing adds heart-healthy fats.
- Rich in Fiber: The vegetables add fiber, supporting digestive health.
- High in Antioxidants: Bell peppers and tomatoes provide vitamin C and other antioxidants.
- Low in Saturated Fat: A lighter alternative to creamy pasta salads, with a tangy dressing instead.
[tasty-recipe id=”7341″]