Farmers Market Pasta Salad

Name: Farmers Market Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Cooking Ideas

I absolutely love creating a vibrant Farmers Market Pasta Salad that captures the essence of fresh ingredients. Each bite bursts with the flavors of garden-fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta. This salad is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect dish for gatherings or a light lunch. Whether enjoying it as a side dish or the main attraction, the combination of textures and tastes brings joy to every table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize seasonal produce and support local farmers.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-05T18:14:27.462Z

When I first stumbled upon the local farmers market, I knew I had to create a dish that would celebrate all the wonderful produce available. With colorful cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil, I was inspired to toss everything together with pasta, creating a lively salad that is as nutritious as it is delicious. I also add a simple olive oil and lemon dressing to enhance the fresh flavors without overwhelming them.

What makes this Farmers Market Pasta Salad stand out is its versatility. I’ve experimented with different vegetables each time I make it, depending on what’s in season. For others looking to create an equally fresh dish, I suggest always tasting as you go, adjusting the seasoning to really highlight the ingredients that shine. It’s all about celebrating freshness!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant colors and fresh flavors that brighten any meal
A quick and easy dish that comes together in 30 minutes
Perfect for meal prep or a side dish at summer gatherings

Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference

Each component of the Farmers Market Pasta Salad contributes unique flavors and textures. The sweet cherry tomatoes add a juicy pop, while the crisp cucumber offers refreshing crunch. Using seasonal ingredients ensures that you're not just enjoying the freshest flavors but also supporting local agriculture. I recommend selecting organic vegetables when possible; they are often at their peak in terms of taste and quality, and you'll truly notice the difference in each bite.

Choosing the right pasta is crucial for this dish. Rotini is ideal due to its spiral shape, which holds the vinaigrette and pairs nicely with the robust flavors of the vegetables and cheese. If you prefer another pasta, opt for shapes that have ridges or twists. These textures will help capture the dressing and enhance the overall enjoyment of the salad.

Techniques for a Perfect Pasta Salad

Cooking the pasta al dente is essential for that perfect bite in your salad. Be sure to follow the package instructions carefully, and time it so that it’s cooked but still firm to the bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy, especially when tossed with dressing. Rinsing under cold water immediately after draining helps stop the cooking process and also cools it down quickly, making it salad-ready.

When mixing in the feta cheese, be gentle. You want to keep those deliciously crumbly pieces intact to provide bursts of flavor throughout the salad. If you're not a fan of feta, try crumbled goat cheese or even diced avocado as alternatives. Both options add creaminess but with unique flavors that complement the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start:

Fresh Ingredients

2 cups cooked rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Be creative and feel free to add any other seasonal vegetables!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, and torn basil leaves. Gently mix in the feta cheese.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until well combined.

Serve

Chill the salad for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your fresh Farmers Market Pasta Salad!

This salad is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Pro Tips

Experiment with seasonal vegetables to keep this pasta salad fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Farmers Market Pasta Salad is an excellent meal prep option. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to marinate. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it can last up to four days. Just be sure to keep any extra dressing in a separate container to avoid sogginess. Toss it together just before serving for maximum freshness.

If you plan to serve it later in the week, consider reserving some of the fresh ingredients like basil and cucumber until just before serving. These ingredients can lose their crunch and flavor over time, and keeping them separate ensures a crisp texture in every bite.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This pasta salad shines as a side dish for summer barbecues or picnics, pairing wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. You can also elevate it to a main course by adding protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. If you want to add a spicy kick, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

For a twist on the traditional flavors, try adding ingredients like roasted red peppers or olives for additional depth. Occasionally, I’ll swap out the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar for a different tang, which balances perfectly with the feta cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for extra protein.

→ What kinds of dressing can I use?

Feel free to try a balsamic vinaigrette or any creamy dressing for a different flavor profile.