If you’re searching for a delightful and refreshing dish that bursts with color and flavor, this Vegetable Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Creamy Vinaigrette Recipe is an absolute winner. It beautifully combines tender pasta with crisp veggies and a luscious dressing that’s creamy yet tangy, making every bite a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients. This salad is not just a simple side but a crowd-pleaser packed with texture and zest, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal.

Vegetable Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Creamy Vinaigrette Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this salad right is all about fresh, basic ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Each item plays a vital role in balancing the dish’s taste, texture, and color, creating harmony in every forkful.

8 oz elbow macaroni or rotini pasta: These shapes hold the dressing well and provide a satisfying chew.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Add juicy sweetness and vibrant red pops that brighten the salad.
1 cup cucumber, diced: Brings a cool, crisp crunch that refreshes the palate.
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced: Offers a mild sweetness and lovely color contrast.
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds sharpness and a slight bite for complexity.
1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional): For a salty, briny twist that deepens flavor layers.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Bright, grassy notes that lift the entire dish.
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option): Creates the creamy base that binds everything with indulgence.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and a fruity undertone.
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar): Provides a bright acidity that balances the creaminess.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional): Introduces a subtle tang and depth to the vinaigrette.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing all flavors.
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Infuses a fragrant, herbal note that ties the salad together.
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, slightly sharp finishing touch.

How to Make Vegetable Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Creamy Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil — the salt seasons the pasta from within. Cook your elbow macaroni or rotini according to package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta retains a slight firmness, perfect for salads. Once cooked, drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down, then let it drain completely so your salad doesn’t turn soggy.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking and cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes in half to release their juicy goodness. Dice the cucumber and red bell pepper into bite-size pieces to maintain crunch without overwhelming each forkful. Thinly slice the red onion to add a hint of sharpness without overpowering the other ingredients. If you’re adding black olives, slice them now for that subtle briny flavor that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.

Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version), olive oil, and vinegar. Add Dijon mustard if you like a slight kick. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Whisk everything vigorously until it’s smooth and creamy — this dressing is where all the wonderful flavors come alive, balancing tang, creaminess, and herbaceous notes perfectly.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with all the chopped vegetables. Pour the creamy vinaigrette over the mixture and stir gently but thoroughly, making sure every piece is evenly coated with the luscious dressing. This step truly brings the salad together, melding textures and flavors into one irresistible dish.

Step 5: Chill and Finish

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and develop fully, making the salad even more delicious. Right before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an herbal brightness and add shredded cheddar cheese if you’re feeling indulgent — it will add a lovely creaminess and mild tanginess that’s just perfect.

How to Serve Vegetable Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Creamy Vinaigrette Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your salad presentation and flavor with fresh, thoughtful garnishes. A few extra sprigs of chopped fresh parsley or basil will add gorgeous bursts of green and fresh aroma. A light sprinkle of cracked black pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can elevate the taste profile even more.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad shines equally as a main or a side, pairing beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. It’s a fantastic partner to smoky barbecue dishes or as a vibrant counterpoint to rich, hearty mains on any buffet table.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or buffets, serve this salad in colorful bowls or even hollowed-out bell peppers for a creative flair. You can also layer it in individual mason jars for easy grab-and-go portions at picnics or potlucks. Add a lemon wedge on the side to give guests an extra zesty kick option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your vegetable pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop in the fridge, but try to avoid storing it too long to keep the veggies crisp and fresh.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well. The creamy vinaigrette can separate and the vegetables may lose their texture when thawed, so it’s better to make it fresh or eat leftovers within a few days.

Reheating

Since this is a cold pasta salad, it’s best served chilled or at room temperature. If it’s been in the fridge, let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off, but avoid heating as it will change the texture and flavor of the creamy dressing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or rotini work best because they trap the dressing well, farfalle, penne, or even fusilli make great alternatives. Just stick to pasta shapes that hold the dressing.

Is there a vegan option for this salad?

Yes! Swap the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo or creamy avocado dressing, and omit the cheese to keep it vegan-friendly without losing any of the deliciousness.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely. Feel free to add diced carrots, snap peas, or even roasted corn for extra sweetness and crunch. Just make sure the veggies are diced small enough for easy mixing and eating.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

At least one hour is perfect for the flavors to meld, but if you have more time, letting it chill for up to 4 hours only improves the taste.

Can I make this salad in advance for a party?

Yes, prepare it the day before to save time. Keep it refrigerated the whole time, and add fresh herbs or cheese right before serving for the best presentation and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough trying this Vegetable Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, and a Creamy Vinaigrette Recipe. It’s fresh, satisfying, and versatile — perfect for any season or occasion. Whether you’re bringing it to a party or enjoying it as a quick lunch, it’s guaranteed to brighten your day with every delicious bite!