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Healthy Pasta Salad Recipe

Healthy & Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

Mona Ijaz
This easy pasta salad recipe has everything you want: chewy pasta, crisp veggies, a little tangy punch from dressing, plus cheese if you’re into it.
4 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 8 person
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta:

Use rotini, penne, or fusilli — they hold the dressing and bits of veggies perfectly.

Veggies:

Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion.

You can toss in whatever’s in your fridge — the more color, the better.

Protein (optional):

Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta if you want it more filling.

Fresh herbs:

Basil, parsley, or dill. They make the whole salad smell like a summer garden.

Dressing:

Olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and dried oregano.

A pinch of salt and pepper brings it all together.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the pasta.

    Boil it al dente — soft with a tiny bite.

      Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and keep it firm.

        Step 2: Chop your veggies.

          Small, even pieces make each forkful perfect.

            Think texture — crunchy peppers, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers.

              Step 3: Make the dressing.

                Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, honey, garlic, and herbs.

                  It should taste bright and a little tangy.

                    Step 4: Toss it all together.

                      Add pasta, veggies, and dressing into a big bowl.

                        Mix gently so everything’s coated evenly.

                          Step 5: Chill before serving.

                            Let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes — the flavors come alive as it cools.

                              Notes

                              Chef’s Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad

                              • Always rinse pasta after cooking — it stops the starch and keeps it from sticking.
                              • Chill before serving; cold pasta holds dressing better.
                              • Use short pasta shapes — they trap flavor beautifully.
                              • Add cheese or herbs just before serving so they stay fresh.
                              • Taste before serving — a squeeze of lemon can fix everything.

                                Healthy Swaps & Variations

                                Want to mix it up? Try these:
                                • Use whole-grain or chickpea pasta for extra fiber and protein.
                                  Why whole-grain pasta is a smart swap for better nutrition: “Health Benefits of Whole-Grain Pasta”
                                • Go dairy-free by skipping cheese and adding avocado chunks.
                                • Toss in tofu, shrimp, or beans for a protein boost.
                                • Make it Italian-style with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls.
                                • Or go Mediterranean with cucumber, red onion, and a drizzle of tzatziki.
                              • Make it once, and trust me — it’ll become your signature dish at every gathering.
                              Keyword BBQ side dish, easy pasta salad, fresh veggie salad, healthy pasta salad, picnic food, summer salad