Vegetarian Pasta Salad Recipe for Fresh Summer Meals

Looking for a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This vegetarian pasta salad recipe is exactly what you need!

Bursting with fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a tangy, flavorful dressing, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as a light lunch, a side at your next barbecue, or a potluck favorite. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity combined with freshness—each bite offers a delightful texture and a refreshing taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this pasta salad is a fantastic choice. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser for all tastes.

Ready to whip up something colorful and delicious? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: The salad combines crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes with tender pasta for a perfect balance of textures.

Easy to Make: With simple steps and common pantry ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add nuts, seeds, or cheeses to suit your preferences.

Healthy and Filling: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein, this salad is nourishing and energizing.

Bonus: It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for vegetarians)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl or jar for dressing
• Whisk or fork for mixing dressing
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, rinse and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, and red onion. Finely chop the parsley and set aside.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
4. Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Add cheese: If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and give it one last gentle toss. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
6. Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your pasta salad fresh and vibrant, avoid overcooking the pasta and rinse it well under cold water—this stops the cooking process and prevents stickiness.”

• Veggie swaps: Try adding roasted zucchini, steamed broccoli florets, or shredded carrots for more variety and color.
• Make it vegan: Replace feta cheese with crumbled tofu or omit cheese entirely and boost flavor with nutritional yeast or toasted pine nuts.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or dill can add a unique twist instead of parsley.
• Dressing variations: Swap red wine vinegar for balsamic or lemon juice for a different acidic note.
• Add protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian pasta salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

It also works well as a side dish for your favorite barbecue or picnic.

For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, try pairing it with Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals. If you love creamy pasta dishes, don’t miss the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to complement this salad.

And for a sweet finish to your meal, check out the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Conclusion

This vegetarian pasta salad is a timeless classic that effortlessly combines fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for those who want a nutritious, tasty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

The flexibility of this recipe means you can tailor it to your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a go-to option for busy days or entertaining guests. Plus, it stores well, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Whether you’re new to vegetarian cooking or a long-time fan, this pasta salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to keep things exciting.

Happy cooking!

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