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This Easy Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or meal prep. Made with tender rotini pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp red onions, and fresh mixed greens, all tossed in a simple herb dressing, this salad is packed with flavor and texture.
It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal, whether you’re serving it for a summer picnic or a weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Light and Fresh: A perfect balance of crisp vegetables, pasta, and herbs.
- Customizable: Easily add protein, cheese, or extra veggies.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge and gets even better the next day.
- Versatile: Serve it warm or cold as a side or main dish.
What to Serve with Easy Pasta Salad
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add protein for a complete meal.
- Garlic Bread: A perfect complement to the fresh flavors.
- Soup: Pair with tomato basil or vegetable soup for a balanced meal.
- Fresh Lemonade: A refreshing drink to enhance the flavors.
- Cheese Board: Serve with a variety of cheeses for extra indulgence.
Pro Tip Before Starting
For the best texture, cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water to prevent sticking while keeping it firm.
Easy Pasta Salad Recipe
A light and refreshing pasta salad with juicy tomatoes, crisp greens, and a simple herb dressing, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 cups rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed salad greens (baby spinach, arugula, etc.)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and
cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al
dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. - Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mixed greens, and basil.
- Toss with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare all ingredients separately and toss them together just before serving.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Extra Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but you can add feta or Parmesan for extra flavor.
Pro Tip After Preparing
Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.
What other vegetables can I add?
Try cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for added crunch and variety.
How can I make this a full meal?
Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp for extra protein and heartiness.
Wrapping it up
This Easy Pasta Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, a potluck, or a quick weekday meal, it’s a fresh and satisfying option that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a bright, refreshing salad packed with flavor and texture!
