25+ Delicious Pasta & Grain-Based Salad Recipes

Pasta and grain-based salads are a delightful way to enjoy a balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. Whether you need a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues, a wholesome meal prep option, or a vibrant centerpiece for your next gathering, these salads offer versatility and taste. Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, proteins, and zesty dressings, they cater to various dietary preferences and cravings. Here’s a list of 25+ pasta and grain-based salad recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

1. Classic Italian Pasta Salad

A medley of rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, and Italian dressing for a tangy, herby, and refreshing bite.

2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

Nutty quinoa combined with cucumbers, feta, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette for a protein-packed and light Mediterranean-inspired dish.

3. Caprese Orzo Salad

Mini orzo pasta mixed with basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a simple yet flavorful bite.

4. Southwest Black Bean Couscous Salad

A Tex-Mex-inspired mix of whole wheat couscous, black beans, corn, avocado, and a smoky lime-cumin dressing.

5. Greek Chickpea and Farro Salad

Farro’s chewy texture pairs well with chickpeas, red onion, feta, and a tangy oregano-infused dressing.

6. Pesto Tortellini Salad

Cheese-filled tortellini tossed with basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and pine nuts for an irresistible and creamy dish.

7. Asian Sesame Noodle Salad

Cold soba or rice noodles coated in a sesame-ginger dressing, garnished with scallions, carrots, and sesame seeds.

8. Lemon-Dill Barley Salad

Barley, cucumbers, and radishes dressed with lemon juice, dill, and olive oil for a bright and refreshing side dish.

9. Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

Tender pasta, shredded buffalo chicken, celery, blue cheese, and ranch dressing for a spicy and satisfying salad.

10. Kale and Quinoa Power Salad

A nutrient-dense bowl with quinoa, massaged kale, cranberries, nuts, and a zesty apple cider vinaigrette.

11. Avocado & Brown Rice Salad

Creamy avocado chunks paired with nutty brown rice, tomatoes, and lime juice for a deliciously wholesome dish.

12. Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad

Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant tossed with orzo pasta and a light lemon vinaigrette.

13. Curry-Spiced Lentil & Quinoa Salad

A fusion of red lentils and quinoa infused with curry powder, raisins, and almonds for an exotic touch.

14. Caesar Pasta Salad

A twist on Caesar salad featuring pasta, romaine lettuce, parmesan, and a creamy homemade Caesar dressing.

15. Peach & Couscous Summer Salad

Sweet peaches, mint, and crumbled feta with fluffy couscous for a refreshing summer delight.

16. Tex-Mex Corn & Quinoa Salad

Southwestern-inspired salad with quinoa, grilled corn, black beans, and a spicy lime dressing.

17. Lemon Herb Pearl Couscous Salad

Light and fluffy pearl couscous combined with fresh herbs, feta, and a citrusy dressing.

18. Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Orzo Salad

A Mediterranean-style orzo dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes, basil, olives, and feta cheese.

19. Spicy Thai Peanut Noodle Salad

Cold noodles tossed with a creamy peanut dressing, crunchy veggies, and a hint of chili heat.

20. Tuscan White Bean & Farro Salad

A hearty blend of farro, white beans, sun-dried tomatoes, and a garlic-infused dressing.

21. Chimichurri Quinoa Salad

Protein-rich quinoa drizzled with zesty chimichurri sauce and mixed with grilled vegetables.

22. Smoky Chipotle Pasta Salad

Elbow pasta tossed in a chipotle-lime dressing with grilled corn, avocado, and black beans.

23. Roasted Sweet Potato & Barley Salad

Chewy barley paired with roasted sweet potatoes, pecans, and a maple mustard dressing.

24. Mango & Cilantro Quinoa Salad

Tropical mango chunks, quinoa, and fresh cilantro dressed in a honey-lime vinaigrette.

25. Green Goddess Avocado Pasta Salad

Creamy avocado dressing coats pasta, cucumbers, and fresh greens for a healthy and tasty option.

26. Red Cabbage & Freekeh Slaw

A crunchy, fiber-rich salad with freekeh, red cabbage, and a lemon-tahini dressing.

27. Mediterranean Bulgur Wheat Salad

Bulgur wheat with parsley, tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh and light dish.

Conclusion

Pasta and grain-based salads are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and adaptable to any meal or occasion. Whether you prefer Mediterranean flavors, bold spices, or light citrusy notes, this collection offers something for everyone. Try these recipes and enjoy delicious, wholesome meals that will impress family and guests alike!