Pasta Salad

A medley of vibrant colors and crisp textures brings to life a refreshing pasta salad that takes just 30 minutes to prepare. This recipe captures the essence of summer with its juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta, making it a delightful dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a light lunch.

This pasta salad is ideal for family barbecues, potlucks, or meal prep for the week. You can easily whip it up a day in advance, as the flavors meld beautifully when chilled overnight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of fresh vegetables creates a delightful crunch.
• It’s a quick, no-cook recipe perfect for busy days.
• The tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor to every bite.
• Feta cheese brings a rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crisp veggies.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

For the Salad

• 2 cups pasta, your choice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup olives, sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Cherry tomatoes: diced regular tomatoes
• Feta cheese: goat cheese or ricotta
• Red wine vinegar: balsamic vinegar for a sweeter taste
• Olives: capers for a different briny flavor

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps for a delicious pasta salad.

Cook pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let cool.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, olives, and feta cheese.

Whisk dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Pour dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

Chill

Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, won’t maintain texture.
Reheat: N/A, best served chilled.

Tips for Best Results

• Use al dente pasta for a firmer texture.
• Allow the salad to marinate for longer for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.
• Add extra veggies like spinach or arugula for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
• Serve as a side dish at summer barbecues.
• Enjoy with crusty bread and a glass of wine.