Go Back
When it comes to creating a delicious pasta salad, the choice of pasta can significantly impact both the taste and nutritional profile of the dish. Whole wheat pasta stands out as an excellent choice, offering several advantages over regular white pasta. For starters, whole wheat pasta is made from whole grains, which means it retains more of the natural nutrients found in the wheat kernel. This results in a higher fiber content, which is beneficial for digestive health and helps keep you feeling full for longer.

No-Cook Summer Veggie Pasta Salad

As summer approaches, delight your taste buds with a Chilled Garden Delight Pasta Salad. This refreshing dish combines whole wheat pasta with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, making it perfect for picnics or meal prep. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this salad showcases seasonal produce. Toss in feta cheese and a light dressing for a delicious, healthy recipe that captures the essence of summer dining.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz whole wheat fusilli or rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1 cup sweet corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)

½ red onion, finely chopped

1 avocado, diced

½ cup black olives, sliced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pasta: If you choose to keep the pasta in a no-cook mode, use pre-cooked or refrigerated pasta available at the store. Alternatively, you can cook the pasta per package instructions, but let it cool completely before proceeding.

    Mix the Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, sweet corn, red onion, avocado, black olives, and basil leaves. Toss gently to combine.

      Combine the Pasta and Veggies: If your pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the mixed veggies. Toss everything together until evenly distributed.

        Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

          Dress the Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to coat all ingredients in the dressing.

            Add Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and give it a final gentle toss.

              Chill and Serve: If possible, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | Serves 4-6