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Fresh & Flavorful Pasta Salad

Fresh & Flavorful Pasta Salad

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook (after boiling pasta)
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad packed with crisp veggies, tender pasta, and a zesty vinaigrette — perfect for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta, and herbs.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
  • Tastes even better the next day!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: pasta salad, summer salad, Mediterranean pasta, vegetarian side, picnic recipe