A good pasta salad is more than just a mix of noodles and vegetables – it’s the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and freshness. This Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty, tangy dressing made from scratch. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully as a side for barbecues, picnics, or even a light main course.
With its colorful presentation and refreshing taste, this pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
For the Salad:
- 12 ounces (340g) rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Homemade Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes (optional)
- Total time: About 55 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- While the pasta cools, chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Place them in a large salad bowl.
Step 3: Make the Homemade Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables.
- Pour dressing over the top and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Herbs
- Gently fold in feta cheese and fresh parsley.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete meal.
- Serve at potlucks and picnics as a refreshing side.
- Add chickpeas or grilled shrimp for extra protein.
- Top with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Protein | 7 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 33 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 220 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Vegetables provide fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins for a refreshing balance.
- Olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Feta cheese adds calcium and protein but can be reduced for a lighter version.
- Whole wheat pasta can be used to boost fiber content.
Variations to Try
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a sweeter flavor.
- Swap feta for mozzarella balls for a Caprese-style twist.
- Add roasted zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus for a Mediterranean touch.
- For a creamy dressing, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice and herbs.
This Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing is fresh, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. The combination of crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and tender pasta makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. Easy to make ahead and always crowd-pleasing, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat all year long.