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Pasta Salad with Roasted Red Pepper Dressing

Emily Carter
A bold, smoky, and creamy pasta salad loaded with fresh vegetables and tossed in a homemade roasted red pepper dressing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 340 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad:

  • 12 oz rotini or penne pasta because ridges hold dressing better
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (for a pop of freshness)
  • ½ cup cucumber diced (crunch is key)
  • ½ cup black olives sliced (because saltiness = flavor)
  • ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced (adds a little bite)
  • ½ cup feta cheese crumbled (because cheese is never optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped (makes everything taste fresh)

For the Roasted Red Pepper Dressing:

  • 1 cup roasted red peppers drained (smoky and sweet perfection)
  • ¼ cup olive oil because dry pasta is a crime
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar for tang
  • 1 clove garlic minced (flavor booster)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard adds depth
  • ½ tsp dried oregano Mediterranean vibes
  • ½ tsp salt season properly
  • ¼ tsp black pepper a little kick

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
  • Prepare the dressing by blending roasted red peppers, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces—tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and olives.
  • In a large bowl, combine pasta, veggies, and feta cheese.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
  • Let it chill for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors develop (if you have patience).
  • Garnish with fresh basil before serving for extra freshness.
  • Enjoy cold or at room temperature—either way, it won’t last long.

Notes

Nutritional Values (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 340
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 9g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Vitamin A: 25%
  • Vitamin C: 20%
  • Folate: 15%
  • Calcium: 12%
  • Iron: 10%

Additional Notes & Tips

  • Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
  • Swap feta for parmesan if you want a sharper cheese flavor.
  • Let it sit overnight—the flavors get even better.
  • Serve with toasted pita or crusty bread to make it a full meal.
  • Try adding chickpeas for extra texture and protein.