1. Classic Macaroni Salad
This classic macaroni salad is a staple at picnics and barbecues. The combination of tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and creamy mayonnaise creates a delightful dish that everyone will love.
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
- Add the cooled macaroni, celery, onion, bell pepper, and pickle relish. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
2. Italian Pasta Salad
This Italian pasta salad is loaded with flavor and is perfect for gatherings. With salami, cheese, and a zesty dressing, it’s sure to be a hit!
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup diced salami
- 1 cup diced mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook rotini according to package directions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the cooled pasta, salami, mozzarella, olives, and tomatoes to the bowl. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
3. Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad
This creamy ranch pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser with its rich flavors and easy preparation. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish!
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise and ranch dressing until well combined.
- Add the cooled pasta, cucumber, tomatoes, carrots, and peas. Toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
4. Tuna Pasta Salad
This tuna pasta salad is a protein-packed dish that is both filling and refreshing. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side at dinner!
- 8 ounces fusilli pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (15 ounces) tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup sweet relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook fusilli pasta according to package directions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lemon juice, and sweet relish.
- Add the drained tuna, celery, onion, and cooled pasta. Stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Southern Coleslaw Pasta Salad
This Southern coleslaw pasta salad combines the creaminess of coleslaw with the heartiness of pasta. It’s a unique twist that everyone will enjoy!
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 cups shredded coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook rotini according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar.
- Add the cooled pasta, coleslaw mix, and bell pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least an hour before serving.
6. Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This Mediterranean pasta salad is bursting with flavors from olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal!
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and lemon juice.
- Add the cooled pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
7. Chicken and Bacon Pasta Salad
This chicken and bacon pasta salad is hearty and satisfying, perfect for a filling lunch or dinner option. The smoky bacon flavor complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise with the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, celery, and onion.
- Add the cooled pasta and mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Spicy Southwest Pasta Salad
If you enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy Southwest pasta salad is for you! With black beans, corn, and a kick from jalapeños, it’s bursting with flavor.
- 8 ounces fusilli pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño, diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook fusilli according to package directions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise with chili powder.
- Add black beans, corn, onion, jalapeño, and cooled pasta. Stir until combined.
- Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
9. Pesto Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This pesto pasta salad is a burst of freshness and flavor, thanks to the vibrant pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s perfect for a light meal or side dish!
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook rotini according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise and pesto.
- Add the cooled pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
10. Greek Yogurt Pasta Salad
This Greek yogurt pasta salad is a healthier twist on traditional pasta salads, combining creamy Greek yogurt and fresh vegetables for a refreshing dish.
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook penne according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
- Add the cooled pasta, cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, and dill. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
11. Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad
This Italian antipasto pasta salad is a colorful mix of meats, cheeses, and veggies, all tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing that brings everything together flawlessly.
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1 cup diced salami
- 1 cup diced provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
- Cook rotini according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Italian dressing.
- Add in salami, provolone, olives, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cooled pasta. Toss to combine.
- Chill for at least 1 hour prior to serving for the flavors to meld.
12. Tuna Pasta Salad
For a quick and easy meal, this tuna pasta salad is packed with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying option any time of the day.
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 can (12 ounces) tuna, drained
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced pickles
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise and lemon juice.
- Add tuna, celery, pickles, and macaroni. Mix well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
13. BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad
This BBQ chicken pasta salad is a delightful fusion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. The smoky BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with creamy mayonnaise for a crowd-pleasing dish.
- 8 ounces fusilli pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook fusilli according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and BBQ sauce until well combined.
- Add shredded chicken, corn, red onion, and cooled pasta. Stir until everything is coated.
- Season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
14. Caprese Pasta Salad
This Caprese pasta salad is a fresh and vibrant dish inspired by the classic Caprese salad, featuring basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes, all combined with a creamy dressing.
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook farfalle according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and balsamic vinegar.
- Add cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and cooled pasta. Toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
15. Southwestern Pasta Salad
This Southwestern pasta salad is a zesty and colorful dish that brings the flavors of the Southwest to your table, featuring black beans, corn, and a creamy dressing.
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook penne according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add black beans, corn, bell pepper, onion, and cooled pasta. Mix well to combine.
- Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Conclusion
These 10 delicious pasta salad recipes featuring mayonnaise are perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks. With a variety of flavors and ingredients, they offer something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you prefer a classic creamy texture or a zesty twist, these recipes will surely become favorites in your culinary repertoire. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up some delightful pasta salads!