11 Meal-Prep Pasta Salads That Stay Fresh All Week

Mediterranean Orzo Salad

fresh mediterranean orzo salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and nutritious dish that combines the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean into a delicious pasta salad.

Perfect for meal prep, this salad can be made in under 30 minutes and is relatively easy, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Pour the dressing over the orzo salad mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Enjoy!

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Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad

creamy pasta salad recipe

Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is a rich and flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta with a luscious pesto sauce, creamy ingredients, and fresh vegetables.

This easy-to-make salad is perfect for meal prep and can be prepared in about 20 minutes, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and allow it to cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, basil pesto, and heavy cream or Greek yogurt. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and Parmesan cheese to the pasta mixture. Gently fold in to combine.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, mix in toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if preferred. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Enjoy your creamy pesto pasta salad!

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Greek Pasta Salad

vibrant mediterranean pasta salad

Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant and invigorating dish that features a medley of Mediterranean flavors. This salad combines pasta with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette, making it a perfect choice for meal prep. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes, this dish is suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups bowtie pasta or fusilli
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, and toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Greek pasta salad!
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Caprese Pasta Salad

fresh vibrant pasta salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is a revitalizing and colorful dish that combines the beloved flavors of a traditional Caprese salad with pasta. This salad features ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a balsamic glaze, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for summer picnics or meal prep.

With a preparation time of around 15 minutes, this dish is easy to prepare and suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss until well combined.
  5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving. Enjoy your Caprese pasta salad!

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Chicken Alfredo Pasta Salad

creamy chicken pasta salad

Chicken Alfredo Pasta Salad is a creamy and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, grilled chicken, and classic Alfredo sauce for a delightful meal. This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, and can be made in about 20 minutes, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (blanched)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, blanched broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the Alfredo sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Pour the Alfredo dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your Chicken Alfredo Pasta Salad!

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Southwest Pasta Salad

vibrant southwest pasta salad

Southwest Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the bold tastes of the Southwest in a pasta format.

This salad is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or as a side dish for any BBQ or picnic. The preparation time is about 25 minutes, and it’s an easy recipe suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and shredded cheese.
  4. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Enjoy your Southwest Pasta Salad!

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Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad

easy italian pasta salad

Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad is a delightful and colorful dish that combines the classic flavors of Italian antipasto into a revitalizing pasta salad.

Perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or as a light lunch, this salad is not only easy to make but also requires minimal effort, making it suitable for cooks of all skill levels. The preparation time is approximately 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fusilli or bowtie pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup salami, diced
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/3 cup Italian dressing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, salami, mozzarella balls, black olives, bell pepper, red onion, and basil.
  3. Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Enjoy your Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad!

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Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad

zesty shrimp pasta salad

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad is a revitalizing and zesty dish that combines tender shrimp, pasta, and vibrant vegetables with a bright lemon garlic dressing.

Perfect for meal prep or as a light summer meal, this salad is quick to prepare and provides a delightful balance of flavors. The preparation time is approximately 25 minutes, and it is easy to make, suitable for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the linguine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, then remove from heat.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sautéed shrimp, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  5. Drizzle lemon juice over the mixture and gently toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Salad!
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Spinach and Feta Pasta Salad

nutritious spinach feta pasta salad

Spinach and Feta Pasta Salad is a revitalizing and nutritious dish that brings together al dente pasta, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a light vinaigrette.

This salad is perfect for meal prep or as a quick side dish, taking only about 20 minutes to prepare, making it suitable for cooks of all experience levels.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. rotini or penne pasta
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup black olives, halved
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the rotini or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, red onion, and black olives.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Spinach and Feta Pasta Salad!
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Taco Pasta Salad

taco flavored pasta salad recipe

Taco Pasta Salad is a fun and zesty twist on traditional pasta salads, combining your favorite taco flavors into a delightful dish that’s perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing side.

With an easy preparation time of about 30 minutes, this recipe is suitable for cooks of all skill levels and is sure to impress at your next gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. rotini or elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the rotini or elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the taco seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to evenly coat all ingredients.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy your Taco Pasta Salad!

Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad

vibrant roasted vegetable pasta

Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that captures the essence of seasonal produce, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a light lunch. This recipe is easy to prepare, taking about 30-40 minutes, and is suitable for cooks of all skill levels. The combination of roasted vegetables with pasta creates a deliciously satisfying salad that can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz. penne or fusilli pasta
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 red onion, sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the diced zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and toss to coat.
  3. Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  5. Once the vegetables are done roasting, combine them with the cooked pasta in a large mixing bowl. Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil, and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
  6. Toss everything gently to combine, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm or let cool for a chilled pasta salad. Enjoy your Roasted Vegetable Pasta Salad!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.