Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than tri-colored pasta salads! These colorful creations are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. With a variety of ingredients and dressing options, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering tri-colored pasta salad recipes to spice up your meal routine. From classic Italian-inspired dishes to spicy and creamy concoctions, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, a potluck at work, or just a quick lunch, these salads are sure to impress.
Let’s start with some of our favorite combinations that are sure to become new favorites…
Classic Italian Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Olive Oil Dressing
Classic Italian Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Olive Oil Dressing
This vibrant pasta salad is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring three colors of pasta, cherry tomatoes, and a light yet flavorful olive oil dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, green)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 3 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the top, tossing gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean – juicy olives, crumbly feta, and tri-colored pasta – for a refreshing and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-color pasta
– 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar.
3. Add sliced olives, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and red onion to the bowl.
4. Toss cooked pasta into the bowl with the Mediterranean mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Jalapeños and Lime
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of tri-colored pasta, juicy jalapeños, and zesty lime for a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Add chopped jalapeños to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to coat with the spicy dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of tri-colored pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil creates a delightful and colorful medley.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl; toss to coat with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy, with the added bonus of being incredibly easy to make! A medley of tri-colored pasta, ripe avocados, and tangy dressing come together in this show-stopping side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pasta cooking time)
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Pesto
A vibrant and flavorful summer salad featuring grilled chicken, tri-colored pasta, and a tangy pesto sauce. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
4. Drizzle pesto sauce over the top and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Ranch Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this Greek yogurt ranch version is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. With the added color and nutrition of tri-colored pasta, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and parsley.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (pasta cooking time)
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Roasted Red Peppers and Artichokes
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the colors of the Mediterranean with the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bow tie, fusilli, and penne)
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 large artichoke heart, canned or fresh, chopped
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the red bell peppers with 1 tbsp. of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, olives, feta cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
Add a pop of color and flavor to your pasta salad with this easy-to-make recipe featuring tri-colored pasta, mozzarella cheese, and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and parsley.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Whisk balsamic glaze with a fork until smooth, then drizzle over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of tri-colored pasta, black beans, corn, and a hint of lime juice for a refreshing summer side dish. Perfect for potlucks or picnics!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes pasta cooking time)
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing
Brighten up your meals with this vibrant and flavorful pasta salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri colored pasta (red, yellow, green)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Shrimp and Lemon Herb Dressing
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect side dish for any outdoor gathering or potluck. The combination of tri-colored pasta, succulent shrimp, and tangy lemon herb dressing will have your guests asking for the recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp with lemon juice, garlic, and parsley until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and feta cheese (if using); toss to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Spinach and Parmesan
This colorful salad is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, featuring tri-colored pasta, wilted spinach, and the salty goodness of parmesan cheese. It’s an easy and refreshing side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, wilted spinach, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Cucumber
A colorful and refreshing pasta salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri colored pasta (bow tie, penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber to the bowl.
4. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for any occasion, this tri-colored pasta salad combines the natural sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bowtie, fusilli, and penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of roasted vegetables with a colorful tri-colored pasta, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner. The slightly charred vegetables add a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the nutty pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook the tri-colored pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked pasta, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Bacon and Ranch
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the colors of pasta, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup of ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, and mixed greens.
3. Pour ranch dressing over the top and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing
A vibrant and nutritious salad that combines the flavors of the Middle East with a colorful pasta medley.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bow tie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chickpeas, and tahini dressing. Toss until well combined.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Pineapple and Ham
This refreshing Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Pineapple and Ham combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavor of ham, all wrapped up in a colorful package. Perfect for potlucks or picnics, this salad is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri colored pasta
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced ham, pineapple chunks, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar; pour over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tri Colored Pasta Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
A vibrant and refreshing salad perfect for any occasion, this tri-colored pasta salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The cilantro lime dressing adds a bright and zesty twist to the classic pasta salad.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (such as fusilli, penne, and bow-tie)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in a colorful culinary adventure with these 20 delicious tri-colored pasta salad recipes! From classic Italian to spicy and bold, each dish features a medley of flavors and textures. Discover unique combinations like Mediterranean-style salads with feta and olives, or creamy avocado salads with lime zest. Get inspired by international twists like Greek yogurt ranch or honey mustard dressing. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, there’s a tri-colored pasta salad recipe to suit your taste buds!
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