Name: Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti noodles – A perfect base for this pasta salad; you can use gluten-free pasta as needed.; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a burst of color and flavor to your pasta salad.; 1 cucumber, diced – For a crisp and refreshing crunch.; 1/2 cup red onion, chopped – Adds a hint of sharpness.; 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched – A nutritious addition full of fiber and vitamins.; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced – To provide a slightly briny flavor balance.; 1/4 cup olive oil – A healthy fat that enhances the dressing.; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar – Adds a tangy twist to the dressing.; 1 tsp dried oregano – Lends a Mediterranean hint to the flavor profile.; Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.

Searching for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal? Look no further than this Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies. This vibrant, flavor-packed pasta salad is perfect for anyone in need of a nutritious yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch or a refreshing side dish for your next gathering, this recipe is your go-to solution. With a medley of delicious vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and broccoli, it’s an incredible option for those looking for low-calorie pasta salad ideas. Best of all, this scrumptious pasta salad comes together in just 20 minutes!

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily customize the ingredients based on your personal preferences. Feel free to add your favorite proteins such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese, or even swap out veggies to suit your taste buds. The combination of textures and flavors in this salad makes it not only enjoyable to eat but also visually appealing, making it an instant hit at picnics, parties, or family meals.

This healthy pasta salad not only provides a burst of flavors but also sneaks in a variety of nutrients thanks to its fresh ingredients. Whether served as a meal prep option or a side dish, this easy pasta salad will keep you feeling full and satisfied without weighing you down. Ready to whip up a delightful, nutritious dish in no time? Let’s dive into the fabulous details of why you’ll love this easy pasta salad with fresh veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies

This healthy pasta salad is not just simple to prepare but also perfect for meal prep and light lunches. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal preparation.
Healthy & Fresh: Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables like broccoli, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Make it ahead for a nutritious lunch throughout the week.
Customizable: Add proteins like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese.
Refreshing & Light: A perfect choice for warm days or picnics.
Low-Calorie Option: A low-calorie pasta salad that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on your culinary journey to create this delightful Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen space and gather the right tools. Start by ensuring your work area is clean and organized, so you can work efficiently. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a colander for draining it, and a large mixing bowl for combining all the ingredients.

Have a cutting board and a sharp knife ready for chopping your fresh vegetables. A whisk or a small bowl will come in handy for combining the dressing ingredients. Optional items like measuring cups and spoons will help ensure accuracy in your recipe, particularly with the dressing proportions. Take a moment to gather everything in one spot to streamline the cooking experience. Once your tools are ready, it’s time to get cooking!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create the Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies:

8 oz spaghetti noodles – A perfect base for this pasta salad; you can use gluten-free pasta as needed.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a burst of color and flavor to your pasta salad.
1 cucumber, diced – For a crisp and refreshing crunch.
1/2 cup red onion, chopped – Adds a hint of sharpness.
1 cup broccoli florets, blanched – A nutritious addition full of fiber and vitamins.
1/4 cup black olives, sliced – To provide a slightly briny flavor balance.
1/4 cup olive oil – A healthy fat that enhances the dressing.
2 tbsp red wine vinegar – Adds a tangy twist to the dressing.
1 tsp dried oregano – Lends a Mediterranean hint to the flavor profile.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. It’s important to add a pinch of salt to the water which will help enhance the flavor of the pasta. Keep the water boiling until the noodles reach the desired tenderness, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water. This step helps cool the pasta down and prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, it’s the perfect time to prep your fresh vegetables. Begin by halving the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and chopping the red onion to your desired size. For the broccoli, blanch it by steaming or boiling for about 2-3 minutes until vibrant green, then quickly transfer it to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. Finally, slice the black olives and set them aside for easy assembly later on.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, measure and combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend all the ingredients until you have a smooth and cohesive dressing. This simple yet flavorful dressing will enhance the overall taste of your pasta salad by tying all the ingredients together.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, take the cooled spaghetti noodles and add the prepped vegetables and olives. Pour the dressing over the entire mixture and toss gently to ensure that everything gets evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mush the vegetables; you want to maintain their crispness and texture while incorporating them into the pasta salad.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Your Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it immediately, or for a flavor boost, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a delightful taste that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light and healthy side dish to accompany any meal.

Variations

This Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies is incredibly versatile, allowing you to make it your own with exciting variations. Here are some recommendations:

Protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp for a protein boost.
Vegetables: Swap in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn for a delightful twist.
Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices like basil, parsley, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.

Cooking Notes

Here are some essential notes to ensure your pasta salad turns out perfectly:

Be sure to rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process; this helps maintain its ideal texture.
Feel free to customize the dressing by adding a touch of honey or mustard for extra flavor.
If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent the vegetables from wilting.

Serving Suggestions

Looking for the perfect occasions to serve your Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies? Here are some delightful suggestions:

Pair it with grilled meats during summer barbecues.
Serve it as a side dish alongside sandwiches or wraps for lunch.
This salad also makes for an excellent light dinner option or a standalone meal.

Tips

To enhance your cooking experience and the final outcome of your pasta salad, consider these helpful tips:

For added flavor, consider marinating your olives in Italian dressing beforehand.
Use fresh herbs where possible, to brighten the flavors of the salad.
Adjust the acidity of the dressing to suit your taste by adding more or less vinegar.
Feel free to adjust the serving sizes; this recipe is easily scalable depending on your needs.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 270 per serving
Protein: 7 grams
Sodium: 210 mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, or even spiralized vegetables for a low-carb option.

How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best fresh.

Can I add cheese to this pasta salad?

Yes, adding feta cheese or grated Parmesan can enhance the flavor and make the dish even more satisfying.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you substitute the spaghetti noodles with a gluten-free variety, then yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both quick to prepare and delicious. Its refreshing flavors, simplicity, and versatility make it a must-try recipe in any kitchen. Whether you choose to add proteins or enjoy it in its simplest form, you’re sure to savor every bite. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below or upload your variations on social media! As always, happy cooking!