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: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rotini pasta; 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 olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons vinegar (red wine or balsamic); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

A delicious and easy-to-make pasta salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch at work!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:04:16.673Z

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It's the perfect meal prep solution for those busy workdays!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh, vibrant ingredients that make lunchtime exciting.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins.

      

The Perfect Work Lunch

Finding a quick and satisfying lunch for work can be a challenge, especially when you're juggling a busy schedule. This Quick Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those hectic days. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s nutritious and packed with flavor, ensuring you stay energized throughout your afternoon.

Additionally, this pasta salad is versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you're a vegetarian or looking to add some protein, this recipe can be easily customized. Simply toss in your favorite protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas, and you'll have a balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the greatest advantages of this Quick Pasta Salad is that it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch over the weekend and portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. This not only saves you time each day but also helps you maintain a healthy eating habit without the temptation of fast food.

To store your pasta salad, simply use airtight containers to keep it fresh. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy a fresh, vibrant meal each day. Just remember to add any delicate toppings, like basil, right before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative with your ingredients. You can easily switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Try adding roasted zucchini, artichoke hearts, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a twist. The possibilities are endless, making this salad a versatile option for any palate.

Don't forget about the dressing! While olive oil and vinegar provide a classic flavor, you can experiment with different dressings to suit your taste. A pesto dressing or a tangy lemon vinaigrette could add a delightful zing to your pasta salad, making it a dish you’ll want to enjoy over and over again.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

2 cups rotini pasta
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 olives, sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons vinegar (red wine or balsamic)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and enjoy!

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

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

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later.

Enjoy your quick and healthy pasta salad!

Quick Tips for Success

To ensure your pasta salad stays fresh and flavorful, always start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables and good-quality olive oil can elevate the taste significantly. Additionally, make sure to cook your pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.

When preparing this salad, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive taste. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute chill can make a difference!

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the pasta offers carbohydrates for energy. Feta cheese adds a nice touch of protein and flavor, rounding out the dish nicely.

Moreover, using olive oil as a dressing introduces healthy fats, which are important for overall health and can help keep you satiated. Coupled with the fiber from the vegetables, this pasta salad is a well-balanced meal that supports your dietary needs while being satisfying and tasty.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad in advance?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good toss before serving.

→ What type of pasta works best?

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

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can add ingredients like spinach, artichokes, or even grilled chicken for added flavor and nutrition.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

The pasta salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.