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Refreshing Mason Jar Pasta Salad

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A crunchy, tangy, and satisfying pasta salad layered in mason jars, perfect for easy meal prep and versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (use dairy-free if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley or basil), chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of rotini or fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain completely.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 medium cucumber, chop 1 cup bell peppers, thinly slice 1/4 cup red onion, and slice 1/2 cup black olives if using.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with all the chopped veggies, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs. Pour in half of the dressing and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the remaining dressing into the bottom of each mason jar. Then add a layer of pasta salad, pressing down lightly to fit more in. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  6. When ready to eat, give the jar a good shake or pour the contents into a bowl and enjoy.

Notes

Rinsing pasta with cold water is key to prevent sticking and sogginess. Layer dressing at the bottom of the jar to keep salad fresh. Adjust salt and pepper after chilling as flavors intensify. Can be customized with proteins or different dressings.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, mason jar salad, meal prep, easy lunch, healthy salad, vegetarian, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/refreshing-mason-jar-pasta-salad-recipe-5-easy-meal-prep-ideas/