Summer Pasta Salad Light – Ready in 15 Min
A quick, versatile Summer Pasta Salad that comes together in 15 minutes. Fresh veggies with a light olive oil-lemon dressing make it perfect for lunches, picnics, or side dishes.
Looking for a quick and delicious dish to brighten up your summer? This Summer Pasta Salad Light is a delightful medley of fresh ingredients that not only tantalizes your taste buds but is also ready in just 15 minutes! Ideal for busy weeknights or sunny picnics, this simple recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition.
Summer Pasta Salad Light
- This recipe is incredibly quick, allowing you to whip it up in just 15 minutes.
- It’s versatile and customizable with your favorite summer veggies.
- Perfectly light yet filling, this salad is great for both lunch and dinner!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cooked pasta (penne or rotini works great)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How to Make
To begin, cook your pasta as directed on the package, then drain and rinse under cool water. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese. In a separate small bowl, mix the olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper as desired. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients well. Top with fresh basil before serving for an added burst of flavor!
Tips
- Feel free to substitute seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Make-Ahead
This pasta salad can easily be made ahead of time. Just toss everything together but the dressing. When you’re ready to serve, add the dressing, and stir to combine.
Storing
Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and develop over time, which can enhance the overall taste!
Freezing
We do not recommend freezing this pasta salad, as fresh vegetables can become mushy when thawed.
Reheating
If you prefer your pasta warm, gently reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent drying. However, this dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Summer Pasta Salad Light with grilled fish or chicken for a fulfilling meal, or serve it as a delightful side dish at your next barbecue.
For helpful kitchen tools, check out this pasta strainer to make your cooking experience even easier!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. cooked pasta (penne or rotini works great)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Cook pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cool water.
Combine vegetables and cheese
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
Make dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper.
Toss and garnish
Pour the dressing over pasta salad, toss to combine, and top with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Frequently asked questions
Can I customize the vegetables in this Summer Pasta Salad?
Yes. This salad is very flexible—swap in your favorite summer veggies or what's on hand.
How long does this recipe take to make?
About 15 minutes from start to finish.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. It uses vegetables, feta, and a simple olive oil-lemon dressing.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the vegetables and pasta ahead, then toss with dressing just before serving.
