Pasta salad is a great, easy side dish for a cookout because it’s satisfying, versatile, and always crowd-pleasing. Summer pasta salads can be customized to suit any taste preference and complement grilled meats or vegetables, and are delicious on their own. Plus, it’s a make-ahead side dish that’ll save you time prepping the day of the cookout, picnic, or backyard barbecue. From classic to creative, we’ve gathered pasta salads for any summer occasion your family and friends will love.
Favorite Pasta Salad
“I get asked to bring this to all the cookouts and gatherings! This is the basic recipe but it is easy to add or replace various ingredients. It’s fun to try different things and it is a pretty salad. It’s easy, delicious, and popular!” – Judith
Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch Pasta Salad
“This is a pasta salad I have been making for at least 15 years. So simple and easy, yet it tastes so good everyone will think it took forever to make it.” – Aleta
Bruschetta Pasta Salad
“The flavors of bruschetta in a salad. Great for picnics or potlucks.” – Mikekey
Southern Antipasto Salad
“This is the way my mom taught us to cook. Start out with a great recipe and make it better.” – Barbara
Lemon Vegetable Pasta Salad
“This salad goes a long way. Great for large gatherings. This pasta salad is easy and takes no time to throw together.” – Meryl
Gluten-Free Pasta Salad
“I have some frends on special diets and everyone loves this salad.” – Karl
Zesty Pasta Salad Supreme
“This Zesty Pasta Salad Supreme is one of my all-time favorite salads. Seriously, I will usually hide the leftovers in the fridge so I can nibble on it for a few days all by myself.” – Debbie
Edamame Pasta Salad
“This is even better the next day. Great to take on picnics or carry-outs.” – Kathy
Shrimp Pasta Salad
“My girls love this. I make it with leftover steamed shrimp.” – Michelle
Hawaiian Pasta Salad
“A Hawaiian-inspired pasta salad with ham and pineapple in a sweet, tangy, and creamy dressing!” – Kevin