The Best Homemade Pasta Salad Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade pasta salad is a surefire hit for any occasion, offering a burst of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. Here’s why you’ll adore it: First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can toss in your favorite veggies, proteins, or dressings to make it your own. Second, it’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear fast at potlucks or family dinners!
Recipe
Craving a revitalizing and versatile dish for your next meal? This homemade pasta salad recipe is a perfect choice, combining vibrant vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy dressing for a delightful summer side or main dish.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes:
Customize your salad by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite vegetables.
Equipment:
Large bowl, Small bowl, Whisk, Pot, Colander
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This pasta salad is a healthy and flavorful dish. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving this pasta salad with grilled chicken; it adds a hearty touch and makes the meal feel complete. A slice of fresh bread, like a crusty baguette or soft focaccia, is perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors. These pairings keep things simple but satisfying, and they’re always a hit at my table.
Grilled Chicken Pairing
When I’m serving grilled chicken, I love pairing it with something fresh and hearty, like a homemade pasta salad. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs perfectly with the cool, tangy pasta salad, creating a balance that feels just right. I like to toss in crisp veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes to add crunch and brightness. A light vinaigrette or creamy dressing ties it all together. It’s a meal that’s satisfying without being heavy, and it works great for backyard barbecues or weeknight dinners. Grilled chicken and pasta salad? Trust me, it’s a match made in food heaven.
Fresh Bread Options
There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of fresh bread to round out a meal, especially when paired with grilled chicken and pasta salad. I love serving crusty baguettes or garlic bread because they add a satisfying crunch and soak up any extra dressing. For something softer, focaccia with herbs or a fluffy dinner roll works perfectly. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll make cheesy pull-apart bread—it’s always a hit. Whole grain or sourdough slices are great for a healthier option, too. No matter what I choose, fresh bread makes the meal feel cozy and complete.
