There’s something irresistibly fresh about a bowl of Italian pasta salad drenched in zesty, herby dressing. Whether it’s served at a backyard BBQ or a weeknight dinner, this colorful and tangy side dish never fails to brighten up the table. The real star? The homemade dressing. Creamy yet sharp, and brimming with herbs and garlic, it transforms a simple bowl of pasta and veggies into something spectacular.

This Italian Pasta Salad Dressing is everything you want in a summer recipe: easy, versatile, and completely crave-worthy. It’s perfect on rotini or penne, marrying well with the briny pop of olives, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the creamy cubes of mozzarella. It’s a make-ahead must that gets even better as it chills, making it your new go-to for potlucks and picnics.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For Italian pasta salad, rotini is a fan favorite thanks to its twisty shape that holds onto the dressing perfectly. However, you can experiment with penne, bow ties, or even fusilli. What matters most is that it’s a short-cut pasta with plenty of grooves and texture, giving each bite that rich flavor from the dressing.

Ingredients for the Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Olive Oil
This is your base. A good quality extra virgin olive oil makes all the difference in flavor and richness.

Red Wine Vinegar
It delivers the sharp tang that balances the oil and enhances the brightness of the vegetables.

Dijon Mustard
Adds creaminess and a slight kick. It also helps emulsify the dressing so it clings better to the pasta.

Garlic
Minced fresh garlic gives this dressing its signature punch. One clove is powerful enough.

Dried Oregano and Basil
Classic Italian herbs that give it depth and warmth.

Salt and Cracked Black Pepper
Seasoning brings everything to life. Don’t be shy with the black pepper.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
If you like a little heat, just a pinch adds the perfect spark.

Grated Parmesan Cheese
This isn’t always traditional, but just a tablespoon adds umami richness.

Sugar
Balances the acidity without making it sweet. A small amount goes a long way.

How To Make the Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Step 1: Choose the Right Jar or Bowl

Start with a mason jar if you want a shake-and-store approach, or a small mixing bowl if you’re whisking by hand. Make sure it’s large enough to handle vigorous shaking or whisking.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

Pour 1/2 cup of olive oil and 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar into your jar or bowl. These two make up the classic vinaigrette base.

Step 3: Add the Flavor Makers

Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. For a hint of heat, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Season It Right

Add 1/4 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and plenty of freshly cracked black pepper. Finish with 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese if you want extra richness.

Step 5: Shake or Whisk

If you’re using a jar, seal the lid tightly and shake it until everything is well combined and slightly emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk vigorously until the dressing thickens slightly.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Let the dressing sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before tossing it with your pasta salad. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve and Store Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Once the dressing is made, it’s ready to work its magic on your pasta salad. Pour it generously over your chilled, cooked pasta and mix-ins, toss thoroughly, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This gives everything time to absorb the flavors.

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to one week. If the oil solidifies, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes and give it a good shake before reusing.

What to Serve With Italian Pasta Salad Dressing?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

A juicy grilled chicken skewer is a perfect protein companion to balance the freshness of the pasta salad.

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and loaded with garlic—this is a natural pairing to mop up any leftover dressing.

Caprese Salad

Double down on Italian vibes with a simple tomato, basil, and mozzarella salad.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Add some heartiness to your table with veggie-loaded, cheesy stuffed peppers.

Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, cheeses, marinated veggies, and crusty bread turn your salad into a full-on Italian feast.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

A light, zesty salmon dish mirrors the brightness of the pasta salad beautifully.

Focaccia Sandwiches

Layer up some Italian meats and cheese between slices of fluffy focaccia for a picnic-perfect pairing.

Deviled Eggs

A creamy, tangy side that complements the zip of the pasta salad dressing.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Italian Pasta Salad Dressing, check out a few more crave-worthy salads and creamy ideas:

Save This Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Planning a cookout or big picnic spread? Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe – it’s the kind of dressing you’ll come back to all summer long.

Tried this dressing? Let us know how it turned out! Did you go spicy with extra red pepper flakes or mellow with more Parmesan? Share your spins and swaps in the comments below.

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