Vibrant Rainbow Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for a colorful dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat? This Rainbow Pasta Salad brings together a medley of fresh vegetables and pasta for a dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch at home. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; the variety of flavors will make your taste buds dance.

Add this quinoa and roasted veggie bowl for a colorful lunch spread.

This recipe is all about brightness, both in color and taste. The crispness of the vegetables pairs beautifully with the tender pasta, while a zesty dressing ties everything together. It’s an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your meal without sacrificing flavor.

For another pasta dish, try this refreshing caprese pasta salad.

Colorful and Refreshing Rainbow Pasta Salad

Vibrant Rainbow Pasta Salad Recipe

Recipe by Meal Prep ChefCourse: Back-to-School LunchesCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

210

kcal

This Rainbow Pasta Salad is a mix of colorful bell peppers, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and fresh herbs, tossed with pasta and drizzled with a tangy dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect side dish or a stand-alone meal.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), diced

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1/4 cup olives, sliced (optional)

  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing or vinaigrette

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • 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 Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and olives if using.
  • Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

    Key Prep Tips

    1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will absorb some of the dressing.
    2. Cool Pasta Quickly: After cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down and prevent clumping.
    3. Uniform Veggie Sizes: Chop all vegetables into similar sizes for an even distribution of flavors and textures.
    4. Prep Ahead: Assemble the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
    5. Choose the Right Dressing: Use a zesty Italian dressing or vinaigrette for a light and refreshing flavor.

    Suggested Variations

    1. Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal.
    2. Cheesy Addition: Include crumbled feta, mozzarella pearls, or shaved Parmesan for extra richness.
    3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
    4. Extra Crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts, seeds, or crispy croutons for added texture.
    5. Seasonal Vegetables: Swap or add vegetables based on what’s in season, such as zucchini, snap peas, or roasted butternut squash.

    Serving Suggestions

    1. Lunch Prep: Pack into individual containers for a quick grab-and-go lunch.
    2. Party Side Dish: Serve as a colorful side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or picnics.
    3. Top with Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic touch.
    4. Pair with Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal.
    5. Add Citrus: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad just before serving for a zesty boost.
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    Meal Prep Chef
    Meal Prep Chef

    Passionate cooks simplifying meal prep for all.
    Founded by a team of food enthusiasts and home cooks, Meal Preparation Ideas began as a way to simplify the daunting task of cooking and planning meals. We believe that with the right tools, a little inspiration, and a touch of organization, anyone can enjoy the benefits of meal prep without the stress.

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