What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This summer pasta salad is a breeze to make, perfect for busy days or last-minute picnics. You’ll love how fresh and colorful it turns out, packing a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, it’s super versatile—toss in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own. It’s also great for meal prep, staying delicious for days in the fridge. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will keep going back for!
Recipe
Summer pasta salads are a revitalizing and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light meal or a side dish. They’re perfect for picnics, barbecues, or quick weeknight dinners, offering a blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients: 8 oz (225g) pasta (such as fusilli or penne), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cucumber (diced), 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup black olives (sliced), 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled), 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped), 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 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, then rinse with cold water to cool. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and basil. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture, pour the dressing over, and toss to combine. Serve chilled.
Notes: For added protein, include grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Time: Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cooking Time: 10 minutes, Serving: 4-6, Calories: 320 per serving, Cuisine: Mediterranean.
Equipment
Preparing summer pasta salads requires a few essential tools to guarantee efficiency and ease. Having the right equipment on hand makes the process seamless and enjoyable.
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Mixing bowls in various sizes
- Whisk for blending dressings
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board for prep work
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or large spoon for tossing ingredients
Nutrition
Pasta salads are a versatile and nutritious option for summer meals. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for a typical serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my summer pasta salad with grilled meats, like chicken or shrimp, for a satisfying meal. A slice of fresh, crusty bread on the side soaks up any extra dressing and adds a nice crunch. These simple sides turn a light dish into something hearty without weighing you down.
Grilled Meats
When I’m planning a summer meal, I love pairing my pasta salads with grilled meats—it’s a combo that just feels right for warm evenings. I’ll often throw chicken, steak, or shrimp on the grill, seasoning them simply with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic. The smoky flavor complements the fresh, zesty pasta salad perfectly, making every bite satisfying and balanced. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Fresh Bread
Nothing rounds out a summer meal like a slice of fresh bread—it’s the perfect side to soak up any extra dressing from your pasta salad or add a little heft to your plate. I love pairing a crusty baguette or soft focaccia with my salads; they’re simple but make the meal feel complete. Warm bread with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of herbs? Yes, please!
