Pasta Salad Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, and super easy to whip up. You’ll love how fresh and flavorful it is, with a mix of textures that keep every bite exciting. It’s customizable, so you can toss in your favorite veggies or proteins. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish, saving you time when you need it most. And let’s not forget, it’s light yet filling, making it a hit for picnics, potlucks, or even a quick lunch.

Recipe

Pasta salad is a versatile and revitalizing dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick meal. It combines the simplicity of pasta with the freshness of vegetables and the tanginess of a flavorful dressing, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes:

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Substitute or add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or avocado.
• For a creamier texture, add a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Serving: 6-8 people

Nutrition

This pasta salad is a nutritious dish packed with fresh ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my pasta salad with grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers; the smoky flavor adds a nice contrast. Fresh bread options, like a crusty baguette or warm focaccia, make the meal feel complete and satisfying. Together, they create a balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Grilled Vegetables

While pasta salad is delicious on its own, grilled vegetables can take it to the next level, adding smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch. I love tossing in grilled zucchini for its tender bite and roasted bell peppers for their sweet, charred edges. They’re easy to prep—just slice, drizzle with oil, and grill until slightly crispy. Trust me, they’ll make your pasta salad unforgettable!

Fresh Bread Options

Three fresh bread options can perfectly complement your pasta salad, turning it into a complete, satisfying meal. I love pairing it with warm, crusty artisan bread—it’s simple but adds so much texture. Garlic bread is another favorite; its rich, buttery flavor enhances every bite. Soft dinner rolls work too, especially if you’re sharing with others. Each option brings something special, making your meal feel even more inviting.