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Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

This Easy Pasta Salad Recipe is a colorful, refreshing, and versatile dish perfect for lunch, picnics, or summer parties. Made with tender pasta, crunchy veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s an ideal make-ahead meal for busy days. Enjoy it as a healthy snack, quick lunch idea, or light dinner for the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salad:
  • 3 cups cooked pasta rotini, penne, or farfalle
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • ½ cup bell peppers chopped
  • ½ cup black olives sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup feta cheese or mozzarella balls
  • Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken shrimp, or chickpeas
  • For the Dressing:
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Prepare Veggies: Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.
  3. Make Dressing: Whisk olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and seasonings in a bowl.
  4. Combine: In a large bowl, mix pasta, veggies, cheese, and optional protein. Pour in dressing and toss.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use short pasta for better texture.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for freshness.
  • For meal prep, store dressing separately to prevent sogginess.
  • Substitute feta with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.