Easy healthy pasta salad recipes are my summer go to! When the weather heats up, the last thing I want to do is slave over a hot stove. That’s where the beauty of easy healthy pasta salad recipes comes in. It’s quick, customizable, and packed with fresh flavors. This recipe is my attempt to create a perfect lunch that’s both filling and good for you.
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I love this recipe because it reminds me of summertime picnics and potlucks. It’s the kind of dish that’s instantly inviting and always a crowd pleaser. Looking for something you can quickly throw together for a light dinner, or meal prep for the week? This has you covered. These easy healthy pasta salad recipes are a great choice!
Why You Will Love This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
This pasta salad isn’t just another bowl of noodles; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, and it is packed with vibrant vegetables and a zesty dressing that will make your taste buds sing.
I wanted to create a healthy pasta salad that didn’t skimp on flavor, and I think I’ve nailed it. It’s light enough to feel refreshing but still satisfying. It fits perfectly with my food philosophy: cooking should feel rewarding, not exhausting.
And trust me, it’s easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Speaking of flavor, have you tried my delicious and healthy hot chocolate recipes?
Ingredients Needed for This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
- Pasta: 1 pound whole wheat pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work best)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
- Cucumber: 1 large, diced
- Bell Pepper: 1, any color, diced
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup, pitted and halved
- Feta Cheese: 4 ounces, crumbled
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
- Red Wine Vinegar: 3 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
How to Make This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to remove excess starch and cools it down for the salad.
- 2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Pit and halve the Kalamata olives. Chop the fresh parsley and basil.
- 3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is combined well to create a smooth emulsion.
- 4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated evenly.
- 5. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Chilling the salad also helps to prevent the vegetables from wilting.
- 6. Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad another gentle toss. Serve chilled and enjoy!
How to Serve This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
This easy healthy pasta salad recipes recipe is incredibly versatile:
- As a Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
- As a Main Course: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- For Picnics and Potlucks: A guaranteed crowd pleaser that travels well.
- With a Twist: Serve on a bed of lettuce for an extra fresh and vibrant presentation.
How to Store This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.
- Reheating: No reheating is necessary; serve chilled straight from the refrigerator. If the dressing has been absorbed, drizzle a little extra olive oil or red wine vinegar before serving.
Tips to Make This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, broccoli florets, or sun dried tomatoes would all be delicious additions.
- Success Tips: Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the salad. Also, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid adding the dressing to the pasta while it is still hot, as this can cause the pasta to absorb too much dressing and become sticky.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: To prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy, add them shortly before serving.
Helpful Notes for This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
- Pasta Type: While I recommend rotini, penne, or farfalle, any short pasta shape will work. Experiment with different shapes to find your favorite.
- Feta Cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using mozzarella balls or goat cheese instead.
- Dressing: Adjust the dressing to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.
Variation of This easy healthy pasta salad recipes Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: In the fall, add roasted butternut squash and cranberries. In the spring, add asparagus and peas.
- Optional Versions: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Creative Modifications: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Include artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra flavor. And if you’re a fan of nuts, try adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a little bit of crunch. Don’t be afraid to add a side of my delicious easy puff pastry for an added treat.
What makes a pasta salad healthy?
Healthy pasta salads are typically made with whole-wheat pasta, lean protein sources like grilled chicken or chickpeas, and plenty of fresh vegetables. Avoid heavy, creamy dressings and opt for lighter vinaigrettes or lemon-herb dressings to keep the calorie count down.
How long does pasta salad last in the fridge?
Pasta salad typically lasts for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as a sour smell or slimy texture.
Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish! However, it’s best to add any delicate greens, like arugula or spinach, just before serving to prevent them from wilting. You can also prepare the dressing separately and add it right before serving to keep the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.
What are some good additions to a pasta salad?
Some great additions to a pasta salad include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, feta cheese, mozzarella balls, grilled vegetables, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and use your favorite ingredients!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this easy healthy pasta salad recipes recipe as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, healthy, and delicious meal any time of the year. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to make it your own. Feel free to leave a comment below with your questions or your own variations!
