Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work

Name: Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for a fast, nutritious lunch that you can easily take to work. Packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, it's a delightful way to refuel during your busy day.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:25:05.596Z

This Quick Pasta Salad is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and colors! Whip it up in no time and enjoy a fresh, satisfying dish that keeps you energized throughout the day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh ingredients that add a burst of flavor
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy workdays
Versatile – customize with your favorite vegetables and proteins

      

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Quick Pasta Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, divide it into individual containers, and have a healthy lunch ready to go every day. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making it even more delicious after a day or two. Plus, it’s easy to store in the fridge, keeping it fresh and crunchy for your busy workdays.

To make your meal prep even simpler, consider using whole grain or legume-based pasta for added nutrition. These alternatives will not only enhance the flavor but also provide you with additional fiber and protein to keep you full longer. This flexibility allows you to tailor your pasta salad to fit your dietary needs and personal taste preferences.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this Quick Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, carrots, or artichokes, depending on what you have on hand or what’s in season. This customization allows you to keep the dish exciting and varied, ensuring you won’t get bored eating the same salad every week.

Additionally, you can add proteins like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp to make it more filling. This makes it a great option for those who are looking to incorporate more protein into their diets without sacrificing flavor. Experiment with different combinations to discover your ultimate pasta salad creation!

Health Benefits of Ingredients

This Quick Pasta Salad is packed with fresh vegetables, each offering a range of health benefits. For instance, cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is known for its cancer-fighting properties. Cucumbers provide hydration and are low in calories, making them an excellent addition for those watching their weight.

Feta cheese not only adds a creamy texture but also contributes calcium and protein to your meal. Meanwhile, the olive oil in the dressing contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. By eating this pasta salad, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body with essential nutrients.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup olives, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients together.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Enjoy your delicious Quick Pasta Salad!

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Pasta Salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a piece of grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost. Alternatively, you can enjoy it with whole-grain bread for a more filling lunch. Adding a side of fresh fruit can also provide a nice contrast of flavors and add a refreshing touch to your meal.

For a more substantial dinner, try serving the pasta salad as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats or vegetables. Its zesty flavor complements many main courses, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.

Storage Tips

To keep your Quick Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within three to five days, but it can last longer if the ingredients are particularly fresh. If you’re preparing it for meal prep, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

If you notice that your pasta salad is starting to dry out after a few days, simply drizzle a little more olive oil or a splash of vinegar before serving. This will help retain its flavor and texture, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad a day in advance?

Yes, this salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the dressing right before serving.

→ What types of pasta work best?

Any short pasta works great, such as fusilli, penne, or bow tie pasta.

→ Can I substitute the vegetables?

Absolutely! You can use any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, like spinach, carrots, or zucchini.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

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