What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser, packed with fresh flavors and easy to make. You’ll love how simple it is to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: Swap veggies, cheeses, or dressings to match your taste or what’s in your fridge.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for picnics, potlucks, or as a tasty side dish for dinner.
Recipe
Making homemade pasta salad is a simple and versatile way to create a revitalizing dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick meal. This recipe combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a flavorful and satisfying salad.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 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
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
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 pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
- Customize the salad by adding ingredients like grilled chicken, pepperoni, or avocado.
- For a creamier version, mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6 servings
Nutrition
Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Total Carbs | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade pasta salad with grilled chicken dishes, as the smoky flavor complements the invigorating veggies perfectly. If you’re looking for something lighter, fresh bread like a warm baguette or garlic knots adds a cozy touch. It’s all about finding what makes your meal feel complete and satisfying!
Grilled Chicken Dishes
Because grilled chicken is so versatile, I love pairing it with dishes that balance its smoky flavor. A tangy mango salsa or a crisp cucumber-dill salad adds freshness that complements the charred notes perfectly. I also enjoy serving it with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, their creamy texture smoothing out the boldness of the chicken. For something lighter, a quinoa salad with lemon dressing works wonders. My go-to is grilled chicken alongside grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers—they soak up the same smoky aroma. These sides make the meal feel complete without overpowering the star of the dish.
Fresh Bread Options
Fresh bread is one of those simple pleasures that can turn any meal into something special. I love serving a warm, crusty baguette with pasta salad—it’s perfect for soaking up any extra dressing. A soft focaccia, dotted with rosemary and sea salt, adds a savory touch, while garlic bread brings a bold flavor that pairs well with lighter salads. For something heartier, try slices of sourdough or a rustic ciabatta. Even simple dinner rolls work if you’re in a pinch. Trust me, the combo of fresh bread and pasta salad is a match made in heaven—no fancy tricks needed!
