Looking for a delicious and satisfying lunch option that’s perfect to pack for work or school? Say hello to our Pasta Salad Lunch Box recipe! With vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and a variety of textures, this pasta salad is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious and convenient meal to enjoy on the go. Packed with wholesome ingredients and customizable to your preferences, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a hearty and refreshing lunch option.
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** While the pasta is cooking, prep your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh basil leaves. Place them all in a large mixing bowl.
3. **Add the Olives and Cheese:** Slice the black olives and crumble the feta cheese. Add them to the bowl with the vegetables.
4. **Assemble the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. **Combine the Ingredients:** Once the pasta has cooled, transfer it to the large mixing bowl with the vegetables, olives, and cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad.
6. **Toss to Combine:** Gently toss all the ingredients together until the pasta is well coated with the dressing and the vegetables, olives, and cheese are evenly distributed.
7. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate it for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. When ready to enjoy, pack the pasta salad in a lunch box or container for a delightful and fulfilling meal on the go.
This Pasta Salad Lunch Box is not only a delicious and colorful option for your midday meal but also a great way to incorporate a variety of fresh ingredients into your diet. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or protein sources to make it even more satisfying. Whether you’re having it at work, school, or a picnic, this pasta salad is sure to brighten up your day with its wholesome goodness.
