Vegetable Pasta Salad Recipe for Fresh and Easy Meals

Welcome to a fresh and vibrant twist on pasta salads! Our vegetable pasta salad recipe is perfect for those warm days when you want something light, colorful, and packed with nutrients.

This dish combines al dente pasta with a medley of crisp vegetables, tossed in a zesty, homemade dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a potluck contribution, or a side for dinner, this salad offers a delightful burst of flavors and textures in every bite.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease. You can customize the veggies to your liking or what’s in season, making it a fantastic choice year-round.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in more veggies into your meals without sacrificing taste. Ready to whip up this crowd-pleaser?

Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps for creating your own bowl of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable pasta salad is a perfect blend of convenience and nutrition. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

The combination of fresh vegetables and pasta means you get a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. It’s also a great make-ahead dish — flavors deepen as it sits, so it tastes even better the next day!

Another reason to love it is its adaptability. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this salad fits the bill.

You can easily swap ingredients or dressings to cater to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a colorful, eye-catching dish that’s sure to brighten up any table.

Finally, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover pasta or vegetables, reducing food waste and saving money. For more inspiration on vegetarian dishes, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini work best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional, for vegetarian, omit for vegan)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

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

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Combine pasta and veggies: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Add herbs and cheese: Fold in the chopped parsley and basil. If using, crumble the feta cheese over the salad and give it one last gentle toss.
6. Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Make it vegan: Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.

Try different veggies: Add steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, or roasted zucchini for more variety and nutrition.

Boost protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas or your favorite beans for an extra protein punch.

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.

For more creative ideas on seasoning your salads and meals, explore our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend and Vegan Salad Dressing Recipe for Fresh and Flavorful Meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable pasta salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a light soup for a complete meal.

You can also serve it alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, for a heartier option.

Looking to make a picnic or potluck spread? Serve this salad chilled in a large bowl with crusty bread on the side.

It also works great as a filling for wraps or stuffed into pita pockets for a quick lunch on the go.

For more fantastic meal ideas, check out our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love or explore Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Our vegetable pasta salad recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients in a simple yet flavorful dish. It’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to making a satisfying meal that everyone will appreciate.

From vibrant veggies to the tangy homemade dressing, every element works harmoniously to create a colorful, tasty salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, its make-ahead nature means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your food with friends and family.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes like our Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals to keep your menu exciting and nutritious all year long!

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