Easy Pasta Salad: A Must-Have for Your 4th of July Cookout
I’ve made dozens of pasta salads, but this fresh, herb-flecked one is my favorite. Readers love it too. It’s always our most popular 4th of July recipe!
The Perfect Addition for the 4th of July
The 4th of July is just around the corner, and I’m in the midst of planning a cookout for my family. While I’m still debating between various veggie and black bean burgers, I’m certain of one thing: my go-to pasta salad will definitely be on the menu.
Why This Pasta Salad is a Favorite
If you’ve been following along, you know I love to share at least one new pasta salad recipe every summer. This year, I’m returning to an old favorite. This easy pasta salad recipe has yet again made its way back to my table.
It bursts with freshness, thanks to the three distinct herbs that capture the essence of summer. I also incorporate herbes de Provence in the zesty lemon dressing and a handful of arugula for that vibrant finishing touch.
This dish has consistently been our most popular recipe since I first shared it back in 2019.
Reader Love
- Valentina wrote: “WOW! I’ve been on the lookout for a healthy, good-tasting pasta salad, and this NAILS IT! The herbs make it very flavorful and fresh. Love it.”
- Meadow commented: “Dressing is perfect for the ingredients! Absolutely the best light, but filling herby summer pasta salad.”
- Jennifer shared: “I seriously love this pasta salad! Packs a big flavor punch and you can adapt it as you like. Healthy and super fresh-tasting.”
If you need an unforgettable side dish for your 4th of July menu, this recipe is unbeatable: it’s flavorful, can be made ahead, and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta (fusilli, bowtie, etc.) | 2 cups |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved |
| Cucumber | 1, diced |
| Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives) | 1/4 cup each, chopped |
| Arugula | 1 cup |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Herbes de Provence | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Preparation Tips
- Get Ahead: This pasta salad can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Just save a few fresh herbs to add just before serving.
- Season to Taste: If you’ve prepped this salad ahead of time, it may need an extra pinch of salt, a drizzle of olive oil, or a splash of lemon juice after it chill in the fridge.
- Make it Your Own: Many readers have personalized this dish! Feel free to toss in artichoke hearts, bell peppers, olives, or your favorite ingredients.