If you’re looking for penne pasta salad recipes, this is it! This Easy Italian Lemon Oregano Penne Pasta Salad Recipe is made with a tasty homemade dressing made with fresh oregano and lemon, cherry tomatoes and mini cucumbers for some added crunchiness. Also, it’s Vegan!

Pasta salad is a favorite summer side dish for barbecues, picnics and pool parties. With only two fresh veggies and a few other simple ingredients, it’s quick and easy to prep when you just don’t have time. penne pasta salad recipes

Penne Pasta Salad Recipes

What I love about this recipe is that it’s made with fresh ingredients like fresh oregano and fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Try my Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad recipe too!

Having a mayo-free salad makes it more transportable (without needed to keep it cool.) Also, it can sit out on a buffet table without going bad as quickly as macaroni salad and potato salads made with mayonnaise.

It serves at a light lunch on hot summer days.

Fresh Oregano

The oregano flavor in this dish is apparent therefore, I don’t suggest using dried oregano. It pairs well with the fresh lemon flavor too. Fresh garden oregano adds a nice woodsy flavor to this pasta salad.

It’s a great perennial herb to grow because it’s known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh?

I don’t suggest using dried oregano for this pasta salad because you won’t get the same fresh oregano flavor.

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Ingredients

*The full, printable recipe is at the bottom of this post in the recipe card where you can adjust the servings.

penne pasta
cherry tomatoes
mini cucumber

Dressing Ingredients

extra virgin olive oil
lemon (for lemon juice and zest)
fresh oregano
salt and black pepper

Instructions Summary

Make pasta according to package directions for firm or al dente if you prefer. Be sure to use a large pot of salted water because the salt seasons the pasta.
Meanwhile, prep the veggies and make the salad dressing and add them to a large bowl.
Next, add the drained cooked pasta (and cold water rinsed) to a large mixing bowl. Stir to combine, cover and chill until ready to serve or at least one hour.

Substitutions and Additions

Use grape tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes
Use penne rigate instead of penne pasta.
Add chopped green onions or red onion.
Add green, black olives or Kalamata olives.
A nice crunchy and sweet addition would be red bell peppers.
Add grated Parmesan cheese or feta cheese.

Storage

Store this pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Add more dressing if needed.

What to Serve with Lemon Oregano Penne Pasta Salad

Fried Chicken Cutlets (without breadcrumbs)
Baked Italian Sausage and Potatoes
Grilled Lemon Rosemary Chicken Breast
Juicy burgers

This easy pasta salad recipe is a good one to file away in your Italian pasta salad recipes. Cold pasta salads are a great side dish to bring to your next summer barbecue or any time of year really. Bring this Italian penne pasta salad to your next potluck!