If you’re running out of time and need to whip up a side dish fast, then this is the perfect recipe for you! This yummy and Easy Pasta Salad recipe is packed with vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty dressing. It’s salad is sure to become a favorite at any table and is made from simple ingredients.
It’s Versatile
Make your own combinations! Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or add protein for a complete meal (I do this for lunch a lot!).
Protein Ideas:
- chicken
- shrimp
- grilled steak
- tuna
- hard boiled egg
- chickpeas
- peas
- tofu
Veggie Ideas:
- arugula
- bell peppers
- shredded carrots
- broccoli
- cauliflower
- celery
- roasted zucchini
- sweet corn
Make This Easy Pasta Salad Ahead of Time
If you’re not in a hurry, this salad can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep for the week. So why wait? Whip up a batch of this delicious and easy pasta salad and watch it disappear in no time!
Enjoy!
If you liked this recipe, you can click HERE to check out more of my side dish recipes on the blog or head on over to my Side Dish Board on Pinterest!
Quick & Easy Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 4 cups cooked fusilli pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup english cucumbers cut in half lengthwise and sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup artichoke heart quarters drained
- 1/2 cup black olive slices drained
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta according the the package instructions, drain. Toss a drizzle of olive oil with the cooked pasta. This helps the pasta to not stick together. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
- Once cooled to room temperature, add the pasta and the remaining ingredients to the large bowl with the dressing.
- Thoroughly mix and serve.