Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work

Name: Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 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; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup 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 satisfying and nutritious lunch at work. Packed with colorful vegetables and a zesty dressing, it's a meal you can prepare in advance and enjoy on the go.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:49:07.331Z

This pasta salad is quick to make and incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Perfect for busy weekdays, it can be assembled in just minutes and stored in the fridge.

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

      

Perfect for Busy Days

On hectic workdays, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. This Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work is designed to alleviate that stress. With a preparation time of under 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also fuels your productivity throughout the day. No need to settle for bland office lunches; this vibrant salad will keep you energized and focused.

Meal prepping is a breeze with this recipe. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out, and have lunches ready to go in no time. This not only saves time during busy mornings but also helps you stick to healthy eating habits. Just grab a container from the fridge and you’re all set for a wholesome lunch at your desk.

Nutritious and Flavorful

One of the standout features of this pasta salad is its nutritional profile. The combination of colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers not only adds visual appeal but also provides an array of vitamins and minerals. Each ingredient is carefully selected to enhance not just the flavor but also the health benefits of your meal, making it a guilt-free option for lunch.

The zesty dressing, made with olive oil and red wine vinegar, ties the salad together, giving it a refreshing taste that brightens your day. The addition of feta cheese adds creaminess and a rich flavor, while black olives contribute a savory depth. Together, these elements create a balanced dish that is both satisfying and enjoyable.

Customizable for Everyone

One of the best aspects of this Quick Pasta Salad is its versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Want to add some protein? Consider tossing in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp. Prefer a different cheese? Swap out feta for goat cheese or mozzarella. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this salad to your taste and dietary needs.

This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge. Toss in some spinach, artichokes, or even roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. With such flexibility, you can enjoy a different version of this pasta salad every time you make it, ensuring that it never becomes boring.

Ingredients

Salad 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
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to make this salad your own!

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

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

Combine Ingredients

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

Add Dressing

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve or Store

Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This pasta salad can be enjoyed fresh or chilled, making it a great option for lunch!

Storage Tips

To keep your Quick Pasta Salad fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. If you plan to make this salad in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the overall flavor of the dish. The salad can be kept for up to three days, making it a perfect option for meal prep.

When you're ready to enjoy your salad, give it a good toss to redistribute the dressing, as it may settle at the bottom. If you find that the salad has absorbed some of the dressing during storage, you can easily revive it by adding a splash more of olive oil or vinegar before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick Pasta Salad can be served as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement your favorite protein. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty vegetable dish for a balanced meal. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a hit at picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

Consider serving the salad in a large bowl for sharing, or portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals. You can also add a sprinkle of nuts or seeds on top just before serving to enhance the texture and add a delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or rotini works well for pasta salad.

→ How long can I store this pasta salad?

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

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions.