What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade pasta salad is a breeze to make, and it’s packed with fresh, flavorful ingredients that everyone will enjoy. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite veggies and dressings, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for picnics, potlucks, or quick weekday lunches.
Recipe
Pasta salad is a versatile and invigorating dish, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick meal. It combines tender pasta with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing for a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or bowtie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 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:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Substitute or add other veggies like carrots, broccoli, or artichokes.
- For a creamier texture, mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
This pasta salad is a balanced meal with a mix of nutrients. Below is the nutritional information per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
What To Serve With It
A great pasta salad pairs perfectly with grilled veggies—think zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant—for a fresh, smoky contrast. I love adding a simple cheese and charcuterie board too, since the salty bites balance the salad’s flavors so well. If you’re feeling extra hungry, toss in some crusty bread to round out the meal.
Grilled Vegetables
When I’m looking to add something fresh and flavorful to my homemade pasta salad, grilled veggies are always my go-to. I love tossing in zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant—they bring a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pasta. A quick brush of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a few minutes on the grill is all it takes. The charred edges add a nice crunch, while the tender insides melt into each bite. Sometimes I’ll throw in cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. It’s an easy way to make the salad feel heartier without weighing it down.
Cheese and Charcuterie
Although pasta salad is already packed with flavor, adding cheese and charcuterie can take it to the next level. I love pairing sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese with cured meats like salami or prosciutto—they bring a salty, savory punch that complements the freshness of the salad. Sometimes, I’ll toss in bite-sized cubes of cheese or fold thin slices of meat into the mix. A charcuterie board on the side, with olives and crackers, makes it feel extra special. It’s a simple upgrade, but the combination of textures and flavors always feels like a little celebration on my plate.
