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A colorful pasta salad bowl with fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh herbs in a white bowl.

Easy Pasta Salad Bowl

A simple, family-style pasta salad bowl that's perfect for a light dinner. With fresh vegetables, a zesty dressing, and minimal prep, this recipe comes together quickly for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium cucumber diced
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sliced black olives

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse briefly under cold water to cool it slightly. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  5. Add the prepared vegetables and parsley to the bowl with the pasta. Pour the dressing over the top.
  6. Toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  7. If using, stir in the feta cheese and black olives. Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.