Tanya Rivers
A light, refreshing, and colorful pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion! This quick angel hair pasta salad bursts with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Tossed in a simple, zesty dressing, it’s the kind of dish that will brighten up your table instantly.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, need a quick lunch, or want a versatile side dish for family dinners, this pasta salad delivers. The angel hair pasta soaks up the flavors beautifully while the crunchy vegetables add a satisfying bite.
Why You’ll Love This Quick Angel Hair Pasta Salad
This dish is all about balance – soft pasta meets crunchy vegetables, tangy olives, and the freshness of herbs. It’s:
- Quick to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes.
- Perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
- Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables and dressings.
- Light yet satisfying, making it a hit year-round.
What Makes Angel Hair Pasta Ideal for Cold Pasta Salad?
Angel hair pasta is thin and delicate, allowing it to absorb flavors quickly without feeling heavy. Unlike thicker pasta shapes, it blends seamlessly with chopped vegetables and herbs, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Its light texture makes it ideal for chilled or room-temperature salads.
Ingredients for the Quick Angel Hair Pasta Salad
Before we start, here’s why each ingredient matters in this vibrant salad:
- Angel hair pasta – Its delicate strands absorb the dressing and flavors quickly.
- Cherry tomatoes (red and yellow) – Add sweetness, color, and juiciness.
- Cucumbers – Provide a refreshing crunch and balance the pasta.
- Black or Kalamata olives – Give a briny, savory depth.
- Fresh parsley and basil – Enhance aroma and freshness.
- Olive oil – Coats the pasta lightly for smooth texture.
- Lemon juice or vinegar – Brightens the flavors with a tangy note.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
How To Make the Quick Angel Hair Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a pot of salted water and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Slice cherry tomatoes in halves, dice cucumbers, and pit and slice the olives. Roughly chop the fresh parsley and basil.
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the vegetables and olives. Drizzle with olive oil, squeeze in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors mingle. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best taste.
Serving and Storing Quick Angel Hair Pasta Salad
This recipe yields about 4–6 servings, perfect for a small family meal or as a side dish at a gathering. Serve it chilled for a refreshing bite or slightly warm if you prefer a cozy pasta salad.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving, and if needed, drizzle with a touch of olive oil to revive the texture.
What to Serve With Quick Angel Hair Pasta Salad?
Enhance your meal with these pairings:
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
The zesty flavors complement the light pasta salad perfectly.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
A protein-packed option that brings out the Mediterranean vibe.
Roasted Vegetables
Earthy and slightly caramelized veggies add warmth and color.
Fresh Garden Salad
A crunchy side for an all-vegetable feast.
Crusty Garlic Bread
Perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
Cold Sparkling Lemonade
A bright, citrusy drink balances the flavors of the dish.
Caprese Salad Skewers
Mini mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes echo the fresh salad flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add a fresh drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon before serving for the best flavor.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, zucchini, shredded carrots, or even roasted corn for more texture and color.
3. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely. Thin spaghetti or vermicelli works well. Short pastas like fusilli can be used but will feel heartier.
4. How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water and toss with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent clumping.
5. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or feta cheese can make this a balanced main dish.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try extra herbs or olives? Maybe a splash of balsamic?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter!
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Quick Angel Hair Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies & Herbs
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 cup red cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 0.5 cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook angel hair pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Slice the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the olives. Chop the fresh parsley and basil.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the vegetables and olives.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.