12+ Delicious Pasta Salad Recipes That Are Healthy and Easy to Make Today!
There’s something incredibly inviting about a bowl of pasta salad, especially when it’s fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. These dishes not only make your taste buds dance but also fit snugly into a healthy eating plan. If you’re looking for easy-to-make recipes that will impress friends and family, you’re in the right place!
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Sun dried tomatoes, red wine vinegar, cannellini beans, maple syrup, farfalle pasta Total Time: 25 mins.
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This salad bursts with the sunny flavors of Italy, combining chickpeas and pasta with a bright, zesty dressing. The cooking technique is simple: just boil your pasta and toss everything together, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
8 oz whole wheat pasta (like rotini or penne)
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup olives, sliced
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this recipe stand out is the delightful combination of textures and flavors. The creamy chickpeas add protein, while the crunchy veggies keep it fresh and exciting. Plus, the dressing brings everything together, making it a perfect dish to enjoy on a warm day or as a filling lunch. You’ll find yourself making this one again and again!
This salad is a delightful blend of pasta and quinoa, offering a hearty yet healthy option that’s rich in nutrients. With a few simple steps, you’ll whip up a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, featuring a medley of Mediterranean ingredients.
8 oz quinoa pasta
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
The unique combination of quinoa and pasta makes this salad not only filling but also packed with protein. The sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes add a wonderful depth of flavor, while the feta cheese provides a creamy finish. This salad is great for meal prep, as the flavors only get better as they mingle in the fridge!
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 15 min Total Time: 15 min.
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Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, this pasta version is a beautiful celebration of fresh ingredients. The vibrant colors and fresh herbs make it a feast for the eyes as well, and the preparation is as straightforward as it gets.
This dish shines with its simplicity and freshness. The mozzarella balls add a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet tomatoes and fragrant basil. Drizzling with balsamic glaze elevates the flavor, making it a perfect side dish for barbecues or a light dinner. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
This vibrant salad is a delicious twist on the traditional Greek salad, incorporating pasta and fresh spinach for extra nutrition. The cooking method is straightforward and quick, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal in no time.
8 oz penne pasta
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Oregano, salt, and pepper to taste
This salad brings the flavors of Greece straight to your table, with its satisfying combination of fresh veggies and hearty pasta. The olives and feta add a salty zing, while the spinach contributes a nutritious boost. It’s perfect for picnics, as it holds up well and tastes even better after a few hours of marinating. You may just find this to be your new favorite salad for any occasion!
Ingredients: Bow tie, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, baby spinach Total Time: 20 min.
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This creamy, dreamy pasta salad features avocado as the star ingredient, creating a lush and healthy twist on traditional pesto. The cooking technique involves a quick blend of ingredients and minimal cooking, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
8 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 ripe avocado
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cherry tomatoes, for garnish
The creamy avocado gives this dish a rich texture without the need for heavy creams. Blending the avocado with basil, garlic, and nuts creates a fresh pesto that clings beautifully to the pasta. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a delightful meal any time!
