Radiatore Pasta Salad

Ever wanted an easy, cold pasta salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings? This Radiatore Pasta Salad Recipe has you covered. With its colorful mix of veggies, zesty Italian dressing, and the quirky shape of radiatore pasta, this dish is a hit at parties, picnics, and makes great leftovers. The best part? You can make it ahead because it tastes even better as it chills.

Ingredients

To make this pasta salad, start with radiatore (or rotini, if you prefer). If you are unsure of what kind of pasta this is, click here to see a box. Both are excellent choices because their shapes hold onto the dressing and other ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this easy recipe together:

• Radiatore pasta, cooked, drained, and cooled
• Pepperoni, quartered for bite-sized pieces
• Black olives, sliced
• Green bell pepper, chopped
• Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Zesty Italian dressing
• Shredded Parmesan cheese for topping

If you’re in the mood for other flavors, you might love my Pesto Bowtie Salad or this fresh Chopped Italian Pasta Salad. Both bring delicious twists that fit right into a summer spread.

How to Make Radiatore Pasta Salad

Start with your cooked pasta, making sure it’s completely drained and rinsed with cold water. This step cools the pasta and prevents it from sticking.

Next, place your chilled pasta in a large mixing bowl and toss in the pepperoni, black olives, chopped green pepper, halved tomatoes, and sliced red onion. Pour in the zesty Italian dressing and stir until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated. Then, let the salad chill in the fridge for about an hour.

Before you serve, top the salad with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan.

Simple (but tasty) Variations

One of the best things about my favorite pasta salad is its versatility. You can add just about any combination of veggies (maybe not peas – they need a more creamy base like in pea pasta salad) or fresh ingredient mix-ins you like. Here are some variations to try—pick your family favorite:

• Extra Veggies: For extra crunch, try adding cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even some chopped broccoli. I also like kalamata olives or green olives in place or in addition to the black olives. Since those tend to be really taste specific, I don’t usually add them if I am bringing this dish for entertaining.
• Cheese Options: Crumbled feta, fresh mozzarella balls, or shredded sharp cheddar all add unique flavors.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh basil or parsley goes great with creamy dressings, and you can add additional flavor simply by using pantry seasonings like pepper flakes, Italian Seasonings, or a little twist of sea salt.

Or, if you’re in the mood to add seafood, this Shrimp Pesto Pasta Salad is a super popular choice as a side dish.

What Kind of Italian Dressing Should You Use?

Whether you use store bought bottled or homemade dressing, both choices are fine. My go-to is zesty Italian dressing for that bright, tangy flavor. But don’t be afraid to try different varieties—regular Italian dressing works well, too. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a creamy Italian dressing is always a great way to vary this dish. Start with about 1/2 cup and add more if needed.

• For more pasta salad inspiration, try a Tri Color Pasta Salad, which uses a colorful mix of pasta and veggies.

Radiatore pasta has a unique, radiator-like shape (yes, it’s true!) that holds onto sauces and dressings really well. All those nooks and crannies make every bite flavorful. Rotini pasta is another popular option, with its spiral shape that catches sauces well too. Both work fine, so it’s really about what you have on hand.

Store your pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. Give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing. Keep in mind that pasta salads don’t freeze well, as freezing can alter the texture.

Research About Pasta Salad Recipes

• Pasta Salad Recipes for the Summer
• What dressing goes best with pasta salad?
• What dishes pair best with a side of Pasta Salad?