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pasta salad

Ultimate Fresh Pasta Salad That Brightens Your Summer

This vibrant pasta salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course salads
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 8 ounces Fusilli Pasta Try gluten-free if preferred.

For the Vegetables

  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Heirloom tomatoes offer extra color.
  • 1 can Chickpeas Swap in black beans or lentils for variation.
  • 2 cups Arugula Substitute with spinach or mixed greens.
  • 1 cup Persian Cucumbers English cucumber works as an alternative.

For the Cheese

  • 1/2 cup Feta Cheese Goat cheese can be used for flavor variation.

For the Herbs

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Mix in any herbs you enjoy.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Mint

For the Dressing

  • 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Avocado oil is a tasty alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Red wine vinegar can be a zesty choice.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can substitute if needed.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Garlic powder can be handy in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence Italian seasoning can be used if you’re out.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Skip for a milder taste.

For the Crunch

  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Sunflower seeds are a great exchange.

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta, cooking it until slightly past al dente—about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and let it cool completely to prevent wilting the veggies.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, herbes de Provence, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of salt.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, arugula, cucumber, feta cheese, fresh herbs, and pine nuts. Gently mix to combine the flavors.
  • Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad. Toss everything gently until each ingredient is nicely coated with the dressing.
  • Enjoy immediately or transfer the salad to the fridge. If storing, add herbs and nuts just before serving.

Notes

A drizzle of additional olive oil before serving enhances flavor!
Keyword easy pasta dish, fresh ingredients, healthy salad, meal prep, pasta salad, summer salad