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, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick Pasta Salad is the perfect option for a delicious and nutritious lunch at work. Packed with colorful vegetables and a zesty dressing, it's both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-28T15:43:11.058Z

This pasta salad is a go-to recipe for busy weekdays. It combines the convenience of pasta with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, making it a refreshing choice for lunch.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to assemble in just 10 minutes
Versatile - customize with your favorite veggies and proteins
Perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold

      

Perfect for Busy Schedules

In today's fast-paced world, finding time for a nutritious meal can be a challenge. This Quick Pasta Salad is designed for those busy weekdays when you need something quick yet satisfying. With just a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy a wholesome lunch that fuels your day without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Whether you're juggling meetings or managing deadlines, this pasta salad can be prepared in advance, saving you precious time during your workday. Just make it on Sunday, and you'll have a delicious lunch ready to grab and go throughout the week.

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients. The colorful array of vegetables provides vitamins and minerals that are crucial for maintaining energy levels and promoting overall health. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while cucumbers add hydration and crunch.

Feta cheese contributes a delightful creaminess and a boost of calcium, while olive oil delivers healthy fats that support heart health. By incorporating a variety of ingredients, this salad ensures you receive a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied longer.

Customization Options

One of the best features of this Quick Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what's available in your pantry. Want to add some protein? Consider grilled chicken, chickpeas, or diced turkey for an extra filling meal.

Feel free to experiment with different dressings as well. A light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing can completely change the flavor profile of this dish. Customizing your pasta salad allows you to create a new favorite every time!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match ingredients as per your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

If you haven't already, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.

Combine the Ingredients

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

Make the Dressing

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

Dress the Salad

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

Serve

Divide into containers for lunch or serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious pasta salad!

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

Meal Prep Made Easy

Meal prepping can transform your week, making it easier to eat healthy without the daily hassle of cooking. This Quick Pasta Salad is a fantastic option for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for several days without losing its flavor or texture. Store it in airtight containers, and you’ll have a ready-to-eat lunch at your fingertips.

To ensure freshness, consider adding delicate ingredients, like herbs or cheese, just before serving. This simple practice helps maintain the salad's vibrant taste and prevents sogginess, keeping your meals enjoyable all week long.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Quick Pasta Salad over several days. Use airtight containers to keep your salad fresh and prevent it from absorbing unwanted odors from the fridge. If you're packing it for lunch, consider using a separate container for the dressing to keep the salad crisp until you're ready to eat.

If you notice any leftover salad, feel free to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving to refresh the flavors. This will help revive the salad and ensure every bite is as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta like fusilli or penne works great for this salad.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

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

→ Is this recipe vegan?

You can make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative.