Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Italian Pasta Salad Dressing transforms a simple pasta salad into a restaurant-worthy dish. It’s tangy, herby, and perfectly balanced to coat every twist and turn of your rotini or fusilli pasta. With just the right mix of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian spices, it ties together fresh veggies, creamy cheese, and briny olives for a mouthwatering bite every time.

Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or an easy weeknight side, this dressing keeps your salad tasting fresh for hours. Pair it with colorful cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and feta or mozzarella cubes, and you’ve got a salad everyone will be asking the recipe for.

What Makes This Italian Pasta Salad Dressing So Good?

It’s all about the balance—zesty red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar adds tang, extra virgin olive oil gives it a rich base, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs (like oregano and basil) makes every bite sing. A touch of garlic and Dijon mustard brings depth, while a pinch of sugar softens the acidity just enough.

If you’re making this ahead, the flavors deepen as it sits, soaking into the pasta and veggies for even more flavor.

Ingredients for the Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – The smooth, rich foundation that carries all the other flavors.
Red or White Wine Vinegar – Brightens and sharpens the taste, essential for that signature tang.
Garlic – Minced or grated, it infuses the dressing with a savory kick.
Dijon Mustard – Adds creaminess and helps emulsify the dressing so it clings to the pasta.
Dried Oregano and Basil – Classic Italian herbs for authentic flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional but great for a subtle kick.
Sugar or Honey – Balances the acidity and rounds out the flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances all the other ingredients, making the dressing pop.

How To Make the Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

Step 1: Whisk the Base

In a medium bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Whisk or shake vigorously until they start to emulsify.

Step 2: Add Flavor Builders

Stir in minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and basil. These bring depth and that classic Italian taste.

Step 3: Balance the Taste

Sprinkle in a pinch of sugar or drizzle of honey, along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk again to fully combine.

Step 4: Kick It Up (Optional)

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 5: Rest for Maximum Flavor

Let the dressing sit for at least 10–15 minutes before tossing with your pasta salad. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving and Storing Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

This dressing is best served chilled and tossed with your pasta salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. If you’re making it ahead, store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Shake well before using, as the oil may naturally separate.

Once tossed with pasta, the salad itself keeps beautifully for about 3 days in the fridge. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to blend.

What to Serve With Italian Pasta Salad?

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Juicy, herbed chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy salad.

2. Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers

Light and flavorful, these skewers complement the pasta’s richness.

3. Crusty Italian Bread

Perfect for soaking up any extra dressing at the bottom of the bowl.

4. Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

A crunchy, cheesy side that balances the fresh pasta salad.

5. Marinated Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, cheeses, and roasted peppers make it a full Mediterranean spread.

6. Caprese Salad Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes echo the Italian flavors.

7. Grilled Sausages

For a heartier pairing, Italian sausages add a smoky, savory bite.

Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you love this Italian Pasta Salad Dressing, you might enjoy these other delicious pasta-inspired dishes:

• Baked Mediterranean Pasta for a warm and cheesy twist on Mediterranean flavors.
• Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta if you crave a creamy, garlicky dinner.
• Amazing Shrimp Pasta Salad for another refreshing seafood pasta option.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe when you’re in the mood for something rich and hearty.
• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a quick and filling weeknight meal.

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I’d love to know how you made it your own! Did you add extra herbs, use fresh mozzarella, or swap in a different vinegar? Share your tips in the comments and let’s help each other make the best pasta salads.

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Italian Pasta Salad Dressing

This zesty and flavorful Italian Pasta Salad Dressing is the secret to a vibrant, refreshing pasta salad. With tangy vinegar, rich olive oil, and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any casual gathering. Toss it with pasta, fresh vegetables, and cheese for a dish that tastes better with every bite.