Marinated Vegetarian Pasta Salad
This marinated vegetarian pasta salad is a vibrant make-ahead dish featuring tender pasta, colorful vegetables, tangy marinated dressing, and crumbled feta. The pasta soaks up the flavors as it rests, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light Mediterranean meal.
⏱ Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Chill: 1–2 hours (for best flavor)
Total: 30 minutes + chill time
Ingredients
For the Salad
12 oz (340 g) rotini or penne pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed & drained
½ cup Kalamatas olives, halved
½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for vegans: vegan feta or omit)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
For the Marinade/Dressing
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. Prepare Marinade
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, basil, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, chickpeas, and olives.
4. Add Dressing
Pour marinade over salad and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Chill & Marinate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight) so the flavors develop.
6. Finish & Serve
Before serving, toss again and sprinkle with feta, parsley, and basil. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes & Tips
Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
Gluten-Free Option: Use chickpea or rice pasta.
Extra Protein: Add roasted tofu cubes or marinated white beans.
Crunch Factor: Toss in toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds just before serving.
Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use bottled Italian dressing instead?
A: Yes, but homemade marinade is fresher and less processed.
Q: How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
A: Cook it just until al dente and rinse with cold water right away.
Q: Can this be served warm?
A: It’s best chilled, but you can serve at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~320
Protein: 10 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbs: 38 g
Fiber: 6 g
Sodium: 420 mg