Easy Pasta Salad

Written by on in Soups and Salads
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An easy pasta salad is a lifesaver for busy days or potlucks, offering a refreshing and customizable meal. Vegetarian Pasta Salad is fresh, healthy and packed full of flavor! All of my favorite veggies are inside this delicious bowl of yum. I know I’ll be making a lot this summer.  This is a cold pasta salad, which means it’s perfect for summer. I also love that it can be made up to a day in advance. And let’s not forget the main reason this is perfect for summer — all those colorful garden veggies. It’s such a great way to use up the abundance of veggies in season from either your garden, the farmers market or the grocery store.

Easy Pasta Salad
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Easy Pasta Salad

Course: Soups and Salads
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 pound bow tie pasta

  • 10 ounces cherry tomatoes sliced

  • 1 medium  broccoli diced

  • 1 large cucumber diced

  • 1 bell pepper diced

  • 2-3 carrot diced

  • 1 small red onion diced

  • 2 small cans sliced black olives

  • for the dressing

  • 1/2 cup olive oil

  • 1/4 cup red or white wine vinegar

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried basil

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

  • 3/4 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp pepper

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Directions

  • Add all ingredients for dressing to a jar, place the lid on the jar, and give it a good shake! The dressing will naturally settle as it sits, so give it a good whisk or shake before serving.
  • Boil pasta in a large pot of water until al dente. Drain water then rinse pasta in cold water. Drain well.
  • Place cooked, cooled pasta in a large bowl. Add all the diced veggies to pasta. Toss to combine.
  • Pour dressing over pasta and veggies. Gently toss to combine everything. Cover with lid and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Cheese Fiesta: Crumbled feta, mozzarella, or Parmesan add salty richness and creamy texture.
  • Nutty Crunch: Chopped walnuts, almonds, or pine nuts provide a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.
  • Fresh Herbs Burst: Finish your salad with chopped parsley, basil, or mint for a vibrant aroma and extra flavor.
  • Spice it Up: A sprinkle of chili flakes or red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat to your creation.
 

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