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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of cooked pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, diced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olives, sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Prepare a quick and delicious pasta salad that’s perfect for lunch at work. It’s fresh, easy to make, and can be customized to your liking.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:16:02.754Z

This quick pasta salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect choice for a busy workday lunch.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh and colorful ingredients that brighten up your lunch
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days
Versatile recipe that allows for endless customization

      

A Colorful and Nutritious Meal

This Quick Pasta Salad is not only pleasing to the eye but also packed with essential nutrients. The vibrant cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumber provide a refreshing crunch, while the red onion adds a hint of sharpness that complements the creamy feta cheese beautifully. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make your lunch break feel special.

Including fresh vegetables in your meals is crucial for maintaining a balanced diet. This pasta salad is a fantastic way to sneak in a variety of colors and nutrients, making it a smart choice for health-conscious individuals. Whether you’re looking to boost your vegetable intake or simply enjoy a delicious meal, this salad checks all the boxes.

Effortless Meal Prep

One of the best things about this pasta salad is its simplicity and speed. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking, you can whip up a satisfying lunch in no time. This makes it perfect for busy professionals who need quick and healthy meal options. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge, ensuring that you always have a nutritious meal ready to go.

Meal prepping this pasta salad not only saves time but also minimizes food waste. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, allowing you to use up leftover vegetables or cheeses. This flexibility means you can enjoy a different variation of the salad each week, keeping your lunches exciting and fresh.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the standout features of this pasta salad is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to match your preferences or dietary needs. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna. If you're looking for a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese and replace it with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Feel free to experiment with different dressings as well. While the olive oil and balsamic vinegar provide a classic taste, a lemon vinaigrette or a creamy dressing can add a different dimension to the salad. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple that you can adapt to suit any palate.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

2 cups of cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olives, sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

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

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 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, and red onion. Set aside.

Combine Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

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

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

This pasta salad keeps well, making it a great option for meal prep!

Storing Your Pasta Salad

To keep your pasta salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days, although the flavors will meld beautifully if allowed to sit for a few hours before serving. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

When you're ready to enjoy your pasta salad, simply give it a good toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. If it seems a bit dry after a day in the fridge, a splash of olive oil can revive the salad and enhance its flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

This Quick Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. For a light lunch, serve it alongside a piece of crusty bread or a green salad. If you're looking for something heartier, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish to create a balanced meal that satisfies your hunger.

In terms of beverages, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the salad perfectly. For a more indulgent option, a crisp white wine can elevate your lunch experience, especially if you're enjoying it outdoors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any short pasta works well, such as penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! You can customize the salad with any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or spinach.

→ How long will leftovers last?

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