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 (your choice); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup olives, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for a tasty and nutritious lunch you can take to work. Packed with fresh vegetables and protein, it's a meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:43:09.693Z

This pasta salad is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to your taste preferences. Whether you add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or keep it vegetarian, it's a versatile dish that works for everyone.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten up your lunch
Quick to make, perfect for busy weekdays
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients

      

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Quick Pasta Salad is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can whip it up in no time and store it in the fridge for up to three days. This makes it ideal for those busy weeks when you know you'll have little time to cook. By preparing this salad in advance, you can grab a nutritious lunch without the hassle of cooking every day.

Meal prepping not only saves time but also helps you make healthier choices. When you have a delicious pasta salad ready to go, you're less likely to reach for unhealthy options. Plus, you can enjoy a variety of flavors throughout the week by simply changing up the vegetables or proteins you add.

Customize to Your Liking

One of the best aspects of this Quick Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're a fan of grilled chicken, feel free to toss in some shredded pieces for added protein. Alternatively, if you're looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or black beans can be fantastic additions.

Changing up the veggies is also a great way to keep things interesting. You can swap out cucumbers for zucchini or add in some spinach for an extra nutrient boost. The possibilities are endless, making this salad a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity.

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. The combination of fresh vegetables provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals. For instance, cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while cucumbers offer hydration and crunch. Together, these ingredients support your overall health and keep you feeling full longer.

Additionally, the addition of feta cheese lends a dose of calcium and protein, helping to keep your bones and muscles strong. With healthy fats from olive oil and the fiber from pasta, this salad makes for a balanced meal that will fuel your day.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup olives, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Quick Pasta Salad, it's essential to store it correctly. Use an airtight container to keep the salad safe from air exposure, which can lead to spoilage. If you plan to keep it for more than a couple of days, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

When stored properly, the salad can last up to three days in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before eating to redistribute the flavors. If you notice any excess moisture, you can drain it off to enjoy a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Pasta Salad can be served on its own as a satisfying lunch or as a delightful side dish at a family gathering or picnic. Pair it with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal, or enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter option. It's also perfect for potlucks, as it travels well and can be enjoyed cold.

For those who love a bit of crunch, consider serving the salad with crispy breadsticks or pita chips. This adds texture and makes the meal more enjoyable. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone satisfied, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad the night before?

Yes, this salad stores well in the fridge overnight. Just keep the dressing on the side until you're ready to serve.

→ What types of pasta work best for this salad?

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

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or zucchini.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The pasta salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but it's best enjoyed fresh.