Searching for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal? This easy pasta salad with fresh veggies is the perfect solution! Whether you’re craving a healthy pasta salad for lunch or a refreshing side dish for a family gathering, this recipe has it all. Packed with delicious veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and broccoli, it’s a great option for anyone seeking low-calorie pasta salad ideas. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick pasta salad recipe is also highly customizable—add your favorite proteins or even swap out veggies to suit your taste!
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.
Ingredients for Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this simple pasta salad recipe:
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles – You can use gluten-free pasta if needed for dietary preferences.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a burst of color and flavor to your pasta salad with vegetables.
- 1 cucumber, diced – For a crisp and refreshing crunch in the salad.
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped – Adds a hint of sharpness.
- 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched – Rich in fiber and vitamins, these are a must-have in your vegetarian pasta salad.
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced – They bring a slightly briny flavor to balance the dish.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Healthy fats that help create a delicious dressing for your pasta salad.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar – Adds tanginess to the salad dressing.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – For a Mediterranean flavor boost.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
Substitutions & Variations:
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini.
- Add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Make it creamy: Add Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy dressing.
How to Make Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies – Step by Step
Step1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti noodles as per the package instructions. Be sure to add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to cool it down. This helps keep the pasta from becoming too soft when mixed with the other ingredients.
Step2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, prepare your veggies. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, chop the red onion, and blanch the broccoli by steaming or boiling for 2-3 minutes, then transferring them to ice water. Slice the black olives and set aside.
Step3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth. This simple dressing will tie everything together.
Step4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables and olives. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This cold pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
- Make it ahead of time: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to marry.
- For added flavor: Include crumbled feta cheese or fresh herbs like basil.
- For a crunchy texture: Add toasted nuts, like sunflower seeds or almonds.
- For a creamier version: Mix in Greek yogurt or a bit of mayonnaise with the dressing.
Best Ways to Serve Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
- Pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Serve with a light vinaigrette side salad for an extra boost of greens.
Looking for more healthy meal ideas? Check out our Best Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe – 15 Minutes Meals or Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken – Easy Dinner Recipe for more flavorful recipes!
Nutritional Information for Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
- Calories: 215 kcal per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
This low-calorie pasta salad is packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a light yet satisfying dish.
Storage & Leftovers for Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
- How to Store: Refrigerate the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Can I Freeze It?: Freezing isn’t recommended due to changes in texture, especially for the veggies and pasta.
- How to Reheat: Enjoy it chilled or leave it at room temperature for a while before serving. It’s best served cold.
FAQs for Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Can I make pasta salad ahead of time? Yes, you can make this easy pasta salad recipe ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge, and it will taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar in pasta salad? White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice work great as substitutes for red wine vinegar.
How long does pasta salad last in the fridge? This healthy pasta salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I use other vegetables in pasta salad? Absolutely! You can add or swap out veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach to customize this vegetarian pasta salad to your liking.
Related Recipes for Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
If you love this easy pasta salad with fresh veggies, try these related recipes for more healthy meal ideas:
-
Irresistible Korean Ground Beef Bowl – Flavorful 25-Minute Recipe
-
Sausage Potato Frittata – Best Protein Breakfast Recipe
Conclusion
Now you know how to make the best easy pasta salad with fresh veggies! Perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or a healthy side dish, this recipe is a versatile, low-calorie pasta salad that everyone will love. Try it today and let us know your favorite variations in the comments!
Enjoy this fresh and healthy pasta salad, and don’t forget to share it with your friends on social media!
