Pasta Salad

The sun shines brightly, and the warm breeze carries the scent of fresh veggies and zesty Italian herbs. This vibrant Pasta Salad is not only refreshing and hearty but also takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect summer dish. Its colorful ingredients and delicious flavor combinations work together effortlessly to create a meal that is both satisfying and easy to share.

This recipe is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or quick weekday meals. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option, as the flavors deepen when allowed to chill overnight, making the salad even more enjoyable when served cold.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It features a delightful mix of crunchy vegetables and soft pasta.
• The feta cheese adds a creamy texture that enhances every bite.
• It uses easily sourced ingredients, making it a breeze to whip up.
• The Italian dressing infuses the salad with a burst of flavor that everyone loves.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Pasta Salad.

For the Salad

• 12 oz rotini pasta, uncooked
• 1 English cucumber, sliced and quartered
• ⅓ cup red onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, any color, chopped
• 2¼ oz sliced black olives, canned and drained
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

• 1 cup Italian salad dressing

For Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Substitute rotini with penne or fusilli.
• Use red wine vinegar for a tangy dressing.
• Feta can be replaced with goat cheese.
• Cherry tomatoes work in place of grape tomatoes.

How to Make It

Start by cooking the pasta and preparing the vegetables.

Cook the Pasta

Cook rotini pasta until al dente per the package instructions.

Rinse and Drain

Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to remove extra starch. Drain it well.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables and place them on a platter or plate.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Mix in Vegetables

Next, add the prepared vegetables and sliced olives to the pasta. Stir gently to combine.

Dress the Salad

Pour Italian dressing over the mixture, then toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Add Feta

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the pasta mixture and gently fold in to incorporate.

Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill

Chill the salad for 2 hours or overnight before serving for best results.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, it doesn’t freeze well due to pasta texture.
Reheat: Not necessary, serve cold or at room temperature.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to rinse the pasta thoroughly to keep it firm.
• Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
• Letting the salad sit helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning after chilling, as flavors may intensify.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
• Perfect for summer picnics or potlucks with family and friends.