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Easy Lunchbox Pasta Salad Recipe with Zesty Italian Dressing for Perfect Picnic Meals

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A quick and easy pasta salad featuring rotini or penne, fresh veggies, shredded cheese, and a homemade zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a simple, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • ½ red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup black olives, sliced
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella or small cubes of feta cheese
  • ⅓ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of rotini or penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain well in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta down. Set aside to drain fully.
  2. While pasta cooks, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 small cucumber and ½ red bell pepper, finely chop ¼ cup red onion (if using), and slice ½ cup black olives. Chop fresh parsley or basil if using.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried basil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and ½ cup shredded mozzarella or feta cubes. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every bit. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and give a final gentle toss.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. The salad tastes even better the next day.

Notes

Do not add dressing before pasta cools to avoid sogginess. Pat veggies dry to prevent watery salad. Adjust seasoning gradually as cheese and olives add saltiness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use plant-based alternatives. Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, lunchbox recipe, zesty Italian dressing, picnic meal, easy pasta salad, rotini salad, penne salad, quick lunch, healthy pasta salad

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/easy-lunchbox-pasta-salad-recipe-with-zesty-italian-dressing-for-perfect-picnic-meals/