Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work

Name: Quick Pasta Salad Lunch for Work
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, chopped; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fast Food

This Quick Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for a nutritious and satisfying lunch on busy workdays.

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-02T23:45:34.641Z

This Quick Pasta Salad combines fresh vegetables and flavorful dressing, making it a go-to meal for lunch at the office.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Packed with fresh veggies for a nutritious boost
Perfect for meal prep and easy to customize

The Benefits of a Quick Pasta Salad

When you're juggling a busy work schedule, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be challenging. This Quick Pasta Salad not only offers a delicious and satisfying option, but it also takes just 15 minutes to prepare. With minimal cooking required, you can whip up a wholesome meal that fuels your energy throughout the day. It's a great way to ensure you stay nourished without spending hours in the kitchen.

Incorporating fresh vegetables into your diet is essential for maintaining good health. This pasta salad is packed with vibrant ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, providing an array of vitamins and minerals. The inclusion of these fresh veggies not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritious boost to your meal, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the standout features of this Quick Pasta Salad is its versatility for meal prep. You can easily double or triple the recipe and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days. This means you can prepare several portions at once, ensuring you have a ready-to-eat lunch available whenever you need it. Just grab a container, and you're set for the week ahead.

Customization is another fantastic aspect of this dish. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Add in proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra sustenance, or switch up the veggies with seasonal produce. This adaptability allows you to keep your lunches exciting and ensures you're never bored with your meal prep!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Quick Pasta Salad is delightful on its own, it can also be served as a side dish for a barbecue, picnic, or potluck. Pair it with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal that will impress your guests. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser that can complement various main courses.

For a unique twist, try experimenting with different types of dressings. Instead of the classic vinaigrette, consider using a creamy dressing or a zesty tahini sauce to elevate the flavor profile. Adding nuts or seeds can also introduce a satisfying crunch, making your pasta salad even more enjoyable. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your perfect quick lunch!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Dressing

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!

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.

Mix the Ingredients

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

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Enjoy your delicious pasta salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Storage Tips

To keep your Quick Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help preserve the crispness of the vegetables and the overall flavor of the dish. It’s best to consume the salad within five days to ensure optimal freshness and taste. If you notice any excess moisture from the dressing, feel free to drain it before serving.

If you plan to enjoy this dish over several days, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This will prevent the pasta from becoming soggy and will help maintain the salad's vibrant texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only tasty but also packed with beneficial nutrients. The combination of whole grains from the pasta, healthy fats from the olive oil, and fiber-rich vegetables makes it a balanced meal option. Each serving provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, supporting your overall health while keeping you satisfied.

With its wholesome ingredients, this salad is suitable for various dietary needs. You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or vegan by skipping the feta cheese or opting for a plant-based alternative. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy this delicious meal, regardless of their dietary restrictions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a busy workday, a family gathering, or a summer picnic, this Quick Pasta Salad fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its bright colors and refreshing flavors make it appealing and inviting, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Moreover, it's an excellent dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings, where everyone can enjoy its delightful taste.

The ease of preparation combined with the ability to customize the ingredients makes this pasta salad a go-to choice for busy individuals. Keep it in your regular lunch rotation to ensure you're always eating healthy and enjoying delicious meals, regardless of how hectic your schedule may be.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ What type of pasta works best?

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

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables like spinach, carrots, or artichokes.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.