Viral Crispy Pasta Salad | The Recipe Critic

by


This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

The viral crispy pasta salad trend is here, and it’s easy to see what the hype is about! Golden, crunchy pasta is tossed with fresh veggies and a creamy dressing for a fun upgrade that’s anything but boring.

Large bowl of crispy pasta salad.

Why the Hype is Real

  • A Fun Twist on a Classic: I love my classic pasta salad, but this recipe adds great texture to every bite.
  • Perfect for Sharing: This salad is a great choice for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, and summer gatherings. It’s always a conversation starter!
  • Easy to Customize: Swap in your favorite veggies, herbs, or seasonings to make this salad your own. It’s a great recipe to adjust based on what you have on hand.

Crispy Pasta Salad Ingredients

Overhead shot of labeled crispy pasta salad ingredients. Overhead shot of labeled crispy pasta salad ingredients.
  • Pasta: I used bowtie pasta, but any small pasta shape will work! Rotini and shells are also great shapes to use.
  • Parmesan Cheese: I prefer grated Parmesan cheese, but shredded works.
  • Olive Oil: Make sure to shake and coat the noodles well in the olive oil. Use more if needed.
Overhead shot of labeled dressing ingredients. Overhead shot of labeled dressing ingredients.
  • Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you prefer.
  • Parsley: Using fresh parsley brightens the flavors of the dressing.

How to Make Crispy Pasta Salad

I am fully on board with the crispy pasta trend! It takes a simple pasta salad and makes it so much more fun with the perfect crunchy bite. My whole family is obsessed, and it disappears every time I make it. We love serving it with grilled chicken, burgers, sandwiches, or anything fresh off the grill.

  1. Al Dente Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Crisp the Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta with olive oil, garlic salt, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Air fry until golden and crispy, shaking halfway through.
  3. Prep the Salad: Add the lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and crispy pasta to a large bowl.
  4. Make the Dressing: Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, and parsley until smooth.
  5. Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Serve crispy pasta salad immediately.
Cooked pasta in a pot on the stove. Cooked pasta in a pot on the stove.
Cooked pasta cooked in the air fryer basket. Cooked pasta cooked in the air fryer basket.
Salad ingredients added to a large serving bowl. Salad ingredients added to a large serving bowl.
Dressing ingredients whisked together in a small glass container. Dressing ingredients whisked together in a small glass container.
Dressing poured over the top of the salad ingredients. Dressing poured over the top of the salad ingredients.

How to Make Crispy Pasta in the Oven

No Air Fryer? No Problem.

  1. Cook Noodles: Boil and drain the pasta, then place it in a large bowl.
  2. Season: Toss it with the olive oil, seasonings, and parmesan cheese.
  3. Spread: Spread the pasta in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Crisp: Bake at 400ºF for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy!

Must Have Tools For This Recipe

  • Air Fryer: Gets the pasta golden and crispy. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
  • Large Bowl: Gives you plenty of room to toss the pasta, vegetables, and dressing together.
  • Sharp Knife: Makes chopping the fresh vegetables quick and easy.

Pin this now to find it later

Pin It

Prevent your screen from going dark

  • Boil 8 ounces uncooked bowtie pasta al dente according to package directions and drain.

  • Place the cooked pasta into the air fryer and add 1 tablespoon olive oil, ¼ teaspoon garlic salt, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Shake the basket to toss and coat the pasta.

  • Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes, shaking the pasta halfway through the cook time.

  • In a large bowl, combine 3 cups chopped Romaine lettuce, 1 cup diced English cucumber, 1 cup halved grape tomatoes, ¼ cup diced red onion, and the cooked pasta.

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ⅓ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley.

  • Pour the dressing over the salad and pasta and toss to coat well. Serve immediately.

Storage Tips

  • Serving: Crispy pasta salad is best enjoyed right away, as the pasta will soften in the dressing. Add the pasta and dressing right before serving.
  • Make Ahead: If you want to make this salad ahead of time, store the salad, pasta, and dressing separately. Assemble right before enjoying!

Calories: 516kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 11gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 27mgSodium: 572mgPotassium: 425mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 3680IUVitamin C: 13mgCalcium: 112mgIron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Large spoon lifting a scoop of crispy pasta salad out of the large serving bowl.Large spoon lifting a scoop of crispy pasta salad out of the large serving bowl.

More Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Love