Best Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Best Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is a smoky, savory, and colorful dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, or easy lunches. Grilled vegetables add a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with al dente pasta and a zesty vinaigrette. It’s wholesome, hearty, and loaded with nutrients—all in one satisfying bowl.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastarotini, penne, or farfalle recommendedzucchinisummer squashred bell pepperyellow bell pepperred onioncherry tomatoeseggplant (optional)olive oilbalsamic vinegar or lemon juicegarlic (minced)dijon mustarditalian seasoning or dried oreganofresh basil or parsleyfeta or goat cheese (optional)salt and pepper

directions

Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.

Slice the vegetables into grill-friendly pieces.

Toss veggies with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Grill over medium heat until tender and lightly charred, about 4–5 minutes per side.

Let the veggies cool slightly, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning to make the dressing.

Add pasta and grilled vegetables to the bowl and toss with the dressing.

Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese and fresh herbs.

Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein.

Use pesto or sun-dried tomato vinaigrette instead of balsamic.

Try kalamata olives or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist.

Swap cheese for a vegan option or omit entirely.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best served cold or at room temperature.Do not freeze.

FAQs

Can I use oven-roasted veggies instead?
Yes, roasting works great if you don’t have a grill.

What’s the best pasta for this salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini or penne hold the dressing and mix-ins best.

Is this salad vegan?
Yes, if you skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes, the flavors improve after chilling—just add fresh herbs before serving.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Toss with a little olive oil after draining if not mixing immediately.

Can I grill the vegetables ahead of time?
Absolutely, they can be grilled up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

The Best Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is a deliciously smoky and vibrant dish that celebrates the flavors of grilled produce and fresh herbs. With endless ways to customize and prep ahead, it’s a summer staple that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.

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