Pasta salad is the unsung hero of potlucks and picnics—cool, colorful, and bursting with flavor in every forkful. This version balances tangy dressing, crisp veggies, and tender pasta for a dish that’s as easy as it is irresistible. It’s light enough for summer days, hearty enough to stand alone, and flexible enough to match whatever’s in your fridge.
Make it ahead and let the flavors mingle—because pasta salad only gets better with time.
⏱ Prep Time 15 minutes | 🔥 Cook Time 10 minutes | 🍽 Servings 6 | 🌱 Difficulty Level Easy | 📦 Storage Tips Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
Ingredients List
- 250g (8 oz) short pasta (rotini, fusilli, penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- ½ cup red bell pepper (chopped)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- ½ cup black olives (sliced)
- ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
For the dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, toss cooled pasta with veggies, olives, and cheese.
- Dress it up: Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat. Garnish with herbs.
- Chill (optional): Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors blend.
💡 Recipe Notes / Tips
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna for protein.
- Want it creamier? Mix in a little mayo or Greek yogurt with the vinaigrette.
- No feta? Try mozzarella cubes or goat cheese for a twist.
🧮 Nutrition Info (approx. per serving, 6 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 7g
- Sugar: 3g
❓ FAQs
- Q: Can I use different pasta shapes?
A: Absolutely. Use what you have—just avoid long noodles like spaghetti. - Q: Can I make it the night before?
A: Yes! It’s even tastier the next day. Just give it a quick stir before serving. - Q: Is it served cold or room temp?
A: It’s usually served chilled, but you can enjoy it at room temp too.
Made this zesty pasta salad? Toss up your creation and tag it with #the_food_pedia on Instagram 🍝🥗
