Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Easy Pasta Salad
- A Quick Look at the Inspiration
- Perfect for Meal Prep and Gatherings
- How to Make the Most of This Easy Pasta Salad
- More Than Just a Side Dish
- Fresh Flavors Meet Quick Preparation
- Notes & Tips
- Key Takeaways
Why You’ll Love This Easy Pasta Salad
If you’re always searching for easy recipes that deliver big flavor in minimal time, this easy pasta salad is for you. From backyard barbecues to weekday lunches, this dish is as flexible as it is delicious. Loaded with fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and just the right amount of crunch, it’s everything you want from a summer salad—and more. Whether you’re packing it up for a picnic or prepping your weekly lunch, this easy recipe is a keeper.
A Quick Look at the Inspiration
At Betty Cooks, we love transforming simple staples into meals that feel special. Author Betty created this recipe with busy families in mind. It checks all the boxes: quick, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. You don’t need a culinary degree to whip this one up, just a few ingredients and about 25 minutes of your day.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Gatherings
This pasta salad isn’t just easy to make—it’s also perfect for planning ahead. Thanks to the zesty Italian dressing and fresh veggies, the flavors deepen as it chills. It’s a win-win for those who value quick and easy recipes during busy weeks. Add it to your weekly meal prep routine or bring it to your next potluck and watch it disappear.
How to Make the Most of This Easy Pasta Salad
To elevate this dish even more, consider mixing in protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Craving a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes does wonders. This recipe is an easy win for dinner recipes, especially when you’re short on time. Plus, it complements nearly any main course and stores beautifully for a couple of days in the fridge.
More Than Just a Side Dish
While technically a side, this easy pasta salad has all the makings of a light and satisfying main dish. With the right additions, such as leftover rotisserie chicken or some protein-packed beans, it can easily stand on its own. That’s the beauty of food receipt easy recipes—you can turn them into whatever suits your needs.
Fresh Flavors Meet Quick Preparation
One of the best things about this dish is how quickly it comes together. In under half an hour, you’ve got a colorful, flavorful bowl of goodness ready to go. That’s why it’s one of our go-to recipes for dinner and also a staple in our quick and easy recipes collection. When time is short but you still want to eat well, this easy pasta salad has you covered.
Notes & Tips
Use any pasta shape you like, but rotini and fusilli are great for catching all the dressing. Want more bite? Toss in some chopped bell peppers. Make it vegan by skipping the cheese, or boost the flavor with a sprinkle of parmesan. It also travels well, making it ideal for picnics and potlucks. And remember, the longer it chills, the better it tastes.
Key Takeaways
- Ready in just 25 minutes
- Customizable with endless variations
- Main keyword used: easy recipes
- Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner
- Kid-approved, vegetarian-friendly, and budget-conscious
Easy Pasta Salad for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Pour in the Italian dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
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