When you need a cold pasta salad that feels fresh, filling, and low-effort, this Antipasto Pasta Salad is a smart pick. It’s bold, well-balanced, and comes together in a way that feels satisfying but still light enough to go back for seconds.

Bowl of colorful pasta salad with rotini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, arugula, corn, olives, seeds, and chunks of feta cheese on a wooden table.

It’s also great for meal prep because the extra dressing keeps well in the fridge, and the tossed salad stays fresh for days. If you want a vegetarian pasta salad that’s easy to make ahead, this is the one to try first.

Why You’ll Love It

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes
Bright & Fresh: A colorful mix that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty
Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors improve after a few hours in the fridge
Customizable: Add arugula, nuts, or swap vegetables based on what you have
Perfect for Any Occasion: From family dinners to potlucks, this salad fits right in

Close-up of a pasta salad in a bowl with rotini, cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, arugula, corn, seeds, and crumbled feta, set on a wooden table with a second bowl partially visible.

Tips for the Best Antipasto Pasta Salad

Pick the right pasta: Spiral shapes hold onto dressing beautifully.
Chill before serving: A few hours in the fridge helps the flavors meld.
Don’t overmix: Gently toss to keep ingredients fresh and vibrant.
Extra dressing is a bonus: Keep on hand for salads throughout the week.

This Antipasto Pasta Salad is simple, flavorful, and perfect for anyone looking to add a pop of color and Italian-inspired taste to their meal. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a festive side dish, it’s guaranteed to impress.

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Antipasto Pasta Salad

Antipasto Pasta Salad is a bright, crowd-friendly vegetarian pasta salad with bold, well-balanced flavors and a zippy Italian-style dressing that ties everything together. It’s easy to make, holds up well for meal prep, and tastes even better after it chills. This is a reliable option for picnics, potlucks, lunches, or an easy make-ahead side for busy weeknights.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Serving Size 6

Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Medium Bowl or Mason Jar
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

For The Salad:

16 oz spiral pasta of choice
1 pint cherry tomatoes quartered
1 large red onion chopped
1 can sweet corn rinsed and drained (15 oz)
½ pound feta cheese crumbled
1 6 oz jar green olives pitted, halved
½ cup arugula
¼ cup pistachios (optional)

For The Dressing:

½ cup red wine vinegar
1 cup olive oil (extra virgin)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Heat a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Prepare pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water.
Add pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add cherry tomatoes, onion, corn, olives, arugula, and feta cheese. Gently stir to distribute ingredients.
To make dressing, add all ingredients to a medium bowl, mason jar or salad cruet. Whisk or shake until thoroughly combined.
Pour dressing over the salad slowly, starting with about ½ cup, and toss well. Add more dressing as needed until everything is lightly coated, then serve.

Do not pour all the dressing at once. Add it gradually and toss in between so the pasta absorbs it evenly, and the salad does not turn heavy.

Notes

Cook the pasta just until al dente, so it holds its shape after tossing.
Add the dressing gradually and toss in between so the pasta absorbs it evenly, and the salad does not feel heavy.
Extra dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Once tossed, the salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days and still tastes fresh.
Any spiral pasta works well here, including rotini, fusilli, or cavatappi. Tri-color pasta is a great option and holds the dressing nicely in its grooves.

More Vegetarian Salad Recipes

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Caprese Skewers are fresh, vibrant, and built for easy entertaining. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in a simple bite that feels light yet satisfying. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic, they’re the kind of appetizer that disappears fast at any gathering.