Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Tri-colored pasta salads are a delicious and easy way to add some excitement to your meals. With a variety of colors, textures, and flavors, these salads are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering tri-colored pasta salad recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From classic Italian to spicy Southwest, and from Mediterranean to ranch-style, each recipe is packed with flavor and color.
Classic Italian Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This classic pasta salad is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring a colorful medley of tri-colored pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 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, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and basil.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, featuring tri-colored pasta, juicy tomatoes, savory olives, and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tri-colored pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, green olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Southwest Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Add a burst of flavor to your gatherings with this vibrant and spicy pasta salad, perfect for potlucks or casual dinners.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bow tie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dashes hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked black beans, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cilantro, and feta cheese to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Add tri-colored pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the vegetables.
5. If desired, add 1-2 dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick.
6. Refrigerate salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including pasta cooking time)
Greek Style Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the classic Greek flavors of feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes with the fun and colorfulness of tri-colored pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. red wine 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, olives, feta cheese, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for pasta)
Avocado Lime Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of lime juice and a pop of color from tri-colored pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tri-colored pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced avocado, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes pasta cooking time)
Balsamic Glazed Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect blend of flavors and colors, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bowtie, penne, and fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil 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 olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, and feta cheese to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss again to combine.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of pesto with the crunch of parmesan cheese, all tossed with tri-colored pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tri-colored pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and parsley. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time)
Ranch Style Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines the creaminess of ranch dressing with the colors of tri-colored pasta, making it a perfect side dish for any gathering. A flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 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 cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, and feta cheese.
3. Pour in ranch dressing and toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the ranch dressing mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the fun of tri-colored pasta, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (such as fusilli, penne, and bow tie)
– 1 lb. cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 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 chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy’s famous Caprese salad with tri-colored pasta, creating a visually stunning and delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bow tie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Brighten up your meals with this refreshing pasta salad, bursting with the flavors of lemon, herbs, and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bowtie, fusilli, and penne)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, basil, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and red bell peppers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (pasta cooking time)
BBQ Ranch Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Get ready to enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad with this BBQ Ranch Tri-Colored Pasta Salad recipe! With the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next backyard gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (bow tie, elbow, and penne)
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1 cup red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and BBQ sauce until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips to the bowl. Toss until pasta is coated with the sauce mixture.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun Dried Tomato Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz tri-colored pasta (bowtie, elbow, and penne)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp 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 sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Toss to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to coat with the tomato mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Sun Dried Tomato Tri Colored Pasta Salad!
Asian Sesame Tri Colored Pasta Salad
Experience the harmonious blend of Asian flavors with this vibrant and nutritious pasta salad. A perfect combination of tri-colored pasta, crunchy vegetables, and savory sesame dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 cup firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 1 tbsp. rice vinegar
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tofu, bell pepper, scallions, and sesame seeds.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Bacon Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A delicious and satisfying pasta salad that combines the flavors of cheese, bacon, and three vibrant colors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tri-colored pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Vegetable Medley Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A colorful and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This tri-colored pasta salad is packed with nutritious vegetables, tangy dressing, and a delightful mix of textures.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1 cup sliced yellow squash
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, yellow squash, carrots, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the vegetables.
6. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Tri Colored Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the simplicity of garlic butter with the visual appeal of tri-colored pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, garlic butter mixture, cherry tomatoes, and parsley. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Lime Cilantro Tri Colored Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a quick lunch option. A burst of citrus and herbal flavors from the lime, cilantro, and tri-colored pasta will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tri-colored pasta (red, white, and green)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 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 lime juice and olive oil.
3. Add cooked pasta, cilantro, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl.
4. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for pasta)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta salad game with these 18 mouth-watering tri-colored pasta salad recipes! From classic Italian to spicy Southwest and Greek-inspired, each dish is packed with flavor. Try the creamy Balsamic Glazed, the savory Pesto Parmesan, or the tangy Lemon Herb. There’s something for everyone in this collection of vibrant and delicious salads. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick lunch, these recipes are easy to make and guaranteed to please. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking!
