If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying dish that packs a punch of flavor, this Italian Pasta Salad is just what you need. It’s a perfect balance of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy Italian dressing, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch, a picnic, or even as a side for your next barbecue. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious and versatile salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: A delicious mix of pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese.
- Protein-Rich: Includes chicken breast to keep you full and satisfied.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge, making for easy leftovers.
Here are the Main Ingredients you will Need for this Recipe:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, diced red onion, chopped chicken breast, and feta cheese.
In a mason jar or small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.
Recipe Notes/Modifications:
- This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
- You can sub Chickapea Pasta or Gluten-Free Pasta to make Gluten-Free
- To make dairy free, omit feta
- If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the amount of red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
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This Italian Pasta Salad is more than just a quick and easy meal—it’s a refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a side dish for your next gathering, or simply a make-ahead meal, this pasta salad has got you covered. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a regular on your menu! Enjoy!
If you give this recipe a try, or any others I share, I’d love to hear from you! Rate the recipe, leave a comment, or tag me on Instagram @thebalancedbitefoodie so I can see and thank you for trying!
Italian Pasta Salad
8
Servings20
minutes10
minutes403
kcal300g
30
minutesTo track this recipe on My Fitness Pal, search TBB Italian Pasta Salad
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Ingredients
- For the Salad:
400 g uncooked pasta of choice (3 cups)
400 g grape tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)
300 g chopped cucumber (about 5 mini cucumbers)
160 g diced red onion (1 medium/large onion)
500 g cooked chicken breast, chopped
80 g feta cheese
- For the Italian Dressing:
60 g olive oil (1/2 cup)
160 ml red wine vinegar (2/3 cup)
Juice of 2 lemons (about ⅓-½ cup)
4 tbsp Italian seasoning
Pinch red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste (about 1 tsp each)
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved grape tomatoes, chopped cucumber, diced red onion, chopped chicken breast, and feta cheese.
- In a mason jar or small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.
Recipe Notes & Modifications
- Make Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
- You can sub Chickapea Pasta or Gluten-Free Pasta to make Gluten-Free
- To make dairy free, omit feta
- If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the amount of red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 300g
- Total number of serves: 8
- Calories: 403kcal
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Protein: 28.8g
- Fat: 12.7g
- Fiber: 2.2g
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