Fresh Summer Pasta Salad Recipe
Description:
This Fresh Summer Pasta Salad is a colorful, vibrant dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Packed with fresh veggies, tender pasta, tangy vinaigrette, and creamy feta, it’s a refreshing and satisfying side or light main dish. Serve it chilled at picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
Salad:
12 oz (340g) rotini or bowtie pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Optional: 1/2 cup corn (fresh or canned), 1/2 cup shredded carrots
Dressing:
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.
2. Prep the Veggies:
While the pasta cooks, chop the vegetables and herbs.
Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers and peppers, slice the onion, and chop the parsley.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Everything:
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, chopped veggies, olives, and feta cheese.
Pour the dressing over and toss well to coat.
5. Chill and Serve:
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Garnish with extra parsley or feta if desired.
Time Breakdown:
Task Time
Prep Ingredients 15 mins
Cook Pasta 10 mins
Assemble Salad 5 mins
Chill Time (optional) 30 mins
Total Time 30–60 mins (with chilling)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 cup):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 250–300
Carbohydrates 32g
Protein 6g
Fat 13g
Saturated Fat 3g
Fiber 3g
Sugar 4g
Sodium 400mg
Note: Values vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors develop more.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Not as written, due to the feta cheese. But you can use vegan feta or omit it entirely.
Q: What pasta works best?
A: Rotini, bowtie, or penne hold the dressing well. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work too.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: It keeps well for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Q: Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
A: Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Yes, but homemade vinaigrette offers fresher flavor and control over ingredients.