Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad – Quick and Flavorful

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad is the summer salad your fridge didn’t know it needed—but will beg for every weekend from here on out. Packed with bright veggies, creamy mozzarella cubes, and that signature Italian dressing (yes, the one from the actual Olive Garden bottle), this dish is fresh, easy, and kind of addictive.

Whether you’re prepping for a family BBQ, throwing together a no-fuss weekday lunch, or just trying to sneak in some extra veggies without hearing complaints, this copycat recipe has your back. And did I mention it only takes about 25 minutes of actual effort? The rest is just fridge magic doing its thing. Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that makes you feel like a potluck queen without turning your kitchen into a war zone. Oh, and it’s 100% beginner-friendly—no culinary school degree required. Let’s dive into the pasta salad bliss.

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What is Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad?

Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad is the at-home, budget-friendly version of that fan-favorite side from the Italian-American chain we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) love. It takes tender rotini pasta and loads it up with fresh, crunchy veggies like bell peppers, red onion, and grated carrots, then folds in creamy mozzarella cubes and savory Parmesan.

What ties it all together? That unmistakable zingy Italian dressing from Olive Garden. And yes, you can grab it straight off the grocery shelf—no shame in that shortcut game. Think of it as a chilled pasta bowl that’s halfway between a salad and a light main course. This recipe brings the comforting flavors of a restaurant classic to your own table—without the waitlist or awkward breadstick debates. Bonus: It’s versatile enough to act as a meal on its own or play nice next to grilled meats, sandwiches, or even soups like this hearty Homestyle Chicken and Gravy.

Reasons to Try Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad

There’s a reason Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad is about to become your new summer staple. First off, it’s ridiculously easy to make. We’re talking 15 minutes of prep time and zero stress—because let’s be real, no one wants to be sweating over a stove when it’s 90 degrees outside. Second, it’s a hit with picky eaters. The combo of familiar pasta, cheese, and kid-approved dressing means you won’t be scraping untouched veggies into the trash.

Third, it’s the ultimate “make-ahead” recipe. You can prep it the night before, stash it in the fridge, and pat yourself on the back as the flavors get even better by lunchtime. It’s also perfect for gatherings—potlucks, picnics, birthdays, you name it. Want to turn it into a full meal? Add grilled chicken or shrimp. Want a twist? Try it with our Lemon Basil Pasta Salad for another fresh flavor combo. Basically, Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad checks all the boxes: quick, tasty, family-friendly, and downright reliable.

Ingredients Needed to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad

To make this colorful and satisfying Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad, here’s everything you’ll need:

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup Italian dressing (preferably Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing)
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup carrot, grated
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• Lemon zest for a citrusy lift
• Grilled chicken or shrimp for protein
• Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch
• Whole wheat pasta for a wholesome twist

Instructions to Make Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad – Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Start with a big pot of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in your rotini pasta and cook it until just al dente—usually about 8–10 minutes depending on the brand. You don’t want mushy noodles; they should still have a slight bite to them. Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This halts the cooking and cools it down quickly, making it ready for salad action. Shake off any extra water and set it aside in a large bowl. If you’re wondering why cold water matters, it stops your pasta from turning into a gummy mess—trust me on this one.

Step 2: Add Dressing and Parmesan

Pour in the Italian dressing while the pasta is still slightly warm. This helps the flavors soak into the noodles (they’re basically little flavor sponges at this stage). Add the grated Parmesan cheese too, and mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. You can even cover the bowl with a lid and give it a little shake-shake if you’re feeling adventurous. The tanginess of the dressing combined with that salty hit from the Parmesan? A match made in flavor heaven.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Veggies

Now, for the fun part—adding color and crunch. Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers, sliced red onion, grated carrot, cherry tomatoes, and black olives. Not only do these veggies add a rainbow of colors, but they bring in all the texture and brightness you want in a pasta salad. Gently fold them into the pasta using a spatula or large spoon. Be gentle though—you’re building a salad, not a construction site.

Step 4: Mix in the Mozzarella

Time for the creamy, cheesy touch. Add the cubed mozzarella to the mix and gently stir again. These little bites of cheese are the surprise in every forkful that keeps people coming back for seconds (and thirds). If you’re dairy-free, feel free to swap this out with a vegan mozzarella alternative, or skip it altogether and double up on veggies.

Step 5: Season It Just Right

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then taste and adjust with salt and pepper. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, go ahead and add a teaspoon of lemon zest—it’ll brighten the whole dish. This step is all about balance. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go. Remember, you’re the chef here.

Step 6: Chill and Let the Flavors Marry

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This step is non-negotiable. Chilling helps all the ingredients mingle, soften, and soak up that Italian dressing. It’s like letting the salad throw a little flavor party in your fridge. If you’re prepping ahead, you can even let it sit overnight—it only gets better with time.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green. If the salad feels a bit dry after chilling, you can add a splash more dressing to wake it up. Serve it in a pretty bowl or pack it into containers for grab-and-go lunches. And if you want to round out the meal, try pairing it with our comforting Chicken Breast and Mushroom Sauce or even a slice of Grasshopper Cake for a sweet finish.

What to Serve with Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad

This salad plays nicely with just about anything on your table. It’s the perfect plus-one to grilled meats—think barbecue chicken, burgers, or steak skewers. It also pairs beautifully with hearty mains like Oven Chicken Cordon Bleu or Shrimp Orzo in Lemon Garlic Sauce. If you’re going for a picnic vibe, toss in some fruit skewers, chips, and lemonade. And yes, it even works as a stand-alone lunch if you’re trying to dodge yet another sandwich. It’s a side dish that won’t stay on the sidelines for long.

Key Tips for Making Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad

1. Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is your friend. 2. Rinse the pasta in cold water to stop the cooking and keep it from getting sticky. 3. Add the dressing while the pasta is still warm for better flavor absorption. 4. Chill the salad for at least an hour to let the flavors blend. 5. Taste and adjust your seasoning before serving. 6. Use fresh veggies for the best crunch and color. 7. Cube your mozzarella small for even bites. 8. Keep a little extra dressing on hand for a refresh before serving. 9. Want extra crunch? Add nuts or seeds just before serving so they stay crisp. 10. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and give them a stir before eating.

Storage and Reheating Tips Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad

This pasta salad stores like a champ. Just scoop any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days. If the salad starts to look a little dry after sitting, add a small splash of dressing and toss it to revive the texture. Because this dish is meant to be enjoyed cold, there’s no need to reheat—just grab a fork and go. If you added protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, give it a quick smell check before eating the next day, just to stay safe. This salad is also picnic and meal prep-friendly. Pack it in lunch containers for an easy grab-and-go option, or make it a day ahead of your next get-together.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Fusilli, penne, or bowtie pasta work great too—anything that holds dressing well. Can I make it vegan? Totally. Just skip the cheeses or use plant-based alternatives. Is it gluten-free? It can be! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Can I prep it ahead of time? Absolutely. In fact, it tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. What if I don’t have Olive Garden dressing? Any zesty Italian dressing will work, but the Olive Garden one gives it that signature flavor. Can I add meat? Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even salami slices make great add-ins.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been hunting for a fresh, easy, and totally crave-worthy dish, Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad is it. It’s quick enough for weeknights, special enough for guests, and flexible enough to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe delivers every time. From busy moms juggling a million tasks to meal prep champs stocking the fridge for the week, this salad checks every box. Don’t forget to check out our Fresh and Healthy Cilantro Lime Pasta Salad for another chilled pasta win. Now go grab that mixing bowl—and let’s make lunch (or dinner, or snack) feel just a little more special.

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