Go Back
pasta salad recipes

Fresh and Flavorful Pasta Salad Recipes You’ll Love

Discover vibrant pasta salad recipes that are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course salads
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot
  • - Small bowl
  • - Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • - Colander

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz Fusilli pasta

For the Vegetables

  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Chickpeas cooked
  • 2 cups Arugula
  • 1 cup Persian cucumbers sliced

For the Cheese and Herbs

  • 4 oz Feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves torn
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley minced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves

For the Nuts and Dressing

  • 1/4 cup Toasted pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Herbes de Provence
  • 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 1 tsp Sea salt to taste

Instructions
 

How to Make Pasta Salad

  • Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked fusilli pasta and cook according to the package directions until slightly past al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Whisk the Dressing: While the pasta cooks, in a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, herbes de Provence, red pepper flakes, and sea salt until well combined.
  • Cool the Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Allow it to cool to room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, transfer the cooled pasta. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, cooked chickpeas, arugula, sliced cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, torn basil, minced parsley, mint leaves, and toasted pine nuts.
  • Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the mixed ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon, salt, or a drizzle of olive oil as desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Keyword customizable, easy recipes, fresh ingredients, Healthy, pasta salad recipes, summery