Honey Mustard Pasta Salad

Honey Mustard Pasta Salad is a fresh, colorful dish that brings together tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy-tangy honey mustard dressing. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a favorite for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or easy lunches. Simple to prepare and easy to customize, this pasta salad is both satisfying and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make
Perfect for make-ahead meals
Sweet and tangy flavor everyone enjoys
Great for gatherings and meal prep
Uses simple, everyday ingredients

Ingredients

Pasta Salad

12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowties)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
¼ cup fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Honey Mustard Dressing

⅓ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons yellow or Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the pasta cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, honey, vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness or tang as desired.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, cheese (if using), and herbs. Pour the honey mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend. Stir once more before serving and add extra seasoning if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Mustard Pasta Salad pairs well with:

Grilled chicken or fish
Burgers and sandwiches
Picnic and barbecue spreads
Fresh fruit or green salad

Tips for Best Results

Use short pasta shapes to hold the dressing well
Let the salad chill for better flavor
Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein
If the salad dries out, stir in a little extra dressing before serving

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Stir before serving, as the dressing may settle

A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

With its creamy honey mustard dressing and crisp vegetables, this pasta salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a special gathering, it’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.