Best Summer Pasta Salad

When it comes to summer meals, nothing hits quite like a chilled pasta salad that’s hearty enough to stand on its own but still feels fresh and bright. This Summer Pasta Salad is packed with juicy basil-marinated tomatoes, creamy avocado, grilled corn, tender grilled chicken, spicy cubes of pepper jack cheese, and is all tied together with a luscious Greek yogurt herb dressing that’s full of fresh basil and cilantro.

This was meant to be our meal prep for the week but we kept going back to the fridge for bites and so the whole thing was gone in 2 days. I will probably make another batch this week because it was that good.

What Makes It So Good?

• Fresh + Creamy: The Greek yogurt herb dressing gives it a creamy texture without feeling heavy.

• Smoky + Bright: Grilled corn and chicken bring that flame-kissed flavor while lemony basil tomatoes add brightness.

• Balanced Heat: Pepper jack cheese gives just a touch of spice for a little summer sizzle.

Ingredients

• 12 oz cooked pasta (fusilli, rotini, or bowties work well), cooled

• 1 cup grilled chicken, chopped

• 2 ears grilled corn, kernels removed

• 1 large avocado, cubed

• 3/4 cup pepper jack cheese, cubed

• 1 cup basil-marinated cherry tomatoes (see below)

• 1/2–3/4 cup Greek yogurt herb dressing (link or recipe below)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Basil-Marinated Tomatoes

Mix together and let sit for 15+ minutes:

• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp fresh chopped basil

• Pinch of salt & pepper

Creamy Herb Greek Yogurt Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin, as needed)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil

• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, and lemon juice until smooth.

2. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and onion powder.

3. Mix in the chopped basil and cilantro.

4. Add a splash of milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached (thick for dipping, thinner for drizzling).

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Chill for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

   
   

Assembly Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled chicken, grilled corn, cubed avocado, pepper jack cheese, and marinated tomatoes (with their juices).

2. Pour in the Greek yogurt herb dressing and gently toss to coat. Add more dressing if needed to taste.

3. Season with salt and pepper as desired.

4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop — or enjoy it immediately if you can’t wait!

Perfect for Every Summer Occasion

This pasta salad is the ultimate dish to bring to summer potlucks, serve at cookouts, or enjoy on the patio with a chilled glass of rosé. It’s satisfying, easy to make, and packed with bold summer flavor in every bite.