Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work

Name: Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (shells or rotini); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy option for a lunch that you can take to work. Packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, it's sure to keep you satisfied throughout your busy day.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:01:13.724Z

This pasta salad is not only quick to make but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables and proteins, making it a perfect meal prep option!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten your lunch
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients

      

Perfect for Meal Prep

Meal prepping can be a game-changer for those with busy schedules. This Quick Pasta Salad is not only easy to make, but it also stores well in the refrigerator. You can prepare a big batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for each day. This way, you’ll always have a nutritious and filling lunch ready to go, saving you time and effort during your hectic workdays.

To keep the salad fresh, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before eating. This will ensure your pasta remains al dente and your vegetables stay crisp. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand, making this salad a versatile option for your weekly meal prep.

Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of fresh vegetables in this pasta salad not only adds vibrant colors but also a variety of textures. Cherry tomatoes burst with juiciness, while crunchy cucumbers and bell peppers provide a satisfying bite. The addition of feta cheese lends a creamy, tangy flavor that enhances the overall profile of the dish. Each ingredient contributes to a salad that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Using high-quality olive oil and red wine vinegar in the dressing elevates the flavor even further. These ingredients provide a zesty kick that complements the freshness of the vegetables, making each bite a delightful experience. This salad is not just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh produce that can brighten any lunch break.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best features of this Quick Pasta Salad is its flexibility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have in your pantry. Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, throw in some spinach or arugula for added greens, or substitute the feta with your favorite cheese for a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

You can also experiment with different dressings to keep things interesting. A balsamic vinaigrette or a lemon-infused dressing can bring a new dimension to the dish. The ability to customize this pasta salad means you can enjoy it week after week without growing tired of the same flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Quick Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta (shells or rotini)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match the vegetables to suit your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Serve

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal option. Cucumbers and bell peppers are particularly high in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.

Whole grain pasta can be used as a healthier alternative, offering additional fiber that aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. This salad is a great way to incorporate more plants into your diet while still enjoying a satisfying, hearty meal.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad is perfect for a variety of occasions beyond just a work lunch. Serve it at picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats and can even be a star dish on a buffet table. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress your guests.

If you’re looking to serve it as a side dish, consider accompanying it with a light protein like grilled fish or chicken. The zesty dressing complements many main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Storage Tips

To keep your Quick Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, making it an ideal option for meal prep. If you’ve added dressing, make sure to consume it within two days for optimal freshness.

When reheating, if you prefer your pasta warm, do so gently in the microwave to avoid overcooking the vegetables. Alternatively, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge. This adaptability makes it a convenient choice for any eating preference!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells works great for this salad.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add any of your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, carrots, or broccoli.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.