Name: Flavorful Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad Jar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta cheese; 1 cup chickpeas or white beans, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tbsp pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional); 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Short Description

This flavorful vegetarian Italian pasta salad jar is the perfect meal prep solution for busy days. Packed with fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Its layered presentation in a jar makes it not only convenient for transport but also visually appealing. Whether you’re planning a picnic, work lunch, or quick dinner, this pasta salad delivers vibrant flavors and textures in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Convenient Meal Prep: Pre-portioned in jars, making it easy to grab and go.
Burst of Flavor: A tangy Italian dressing coats every bite, enhancing the fresh ingredients.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to fit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with colorful vegetables, protein-rich beans, and whole-grain pasta for a balanced meal.
Great for Gatherings: A fun and mess-free way to serve salads at picnics and potlucks.

Ingredients

Pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, diced
Bell peppers, chopped
Red onion, finely sliced
Black olives, sliced
Mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta cheese
Chickpeas or white beans, drained and rinsed
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional)

For the Dressing:

Extra virgin olive oil
Red wine vinegar
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Garlic, minced
Dried oregano
Dried basil
Salt and pepper

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Layer the Jars:
- Start with the dressing at the bottom of each jar to keep ingredients fresh.
- Add sturdy ingredients next, such as chickpeas, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
- Follow with cherry tomatoes, olives, red onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella or feta cheese.
- Top with cooked pasta and fresh basil.
- Sprinkle pine nuts or almonds, if using.
Seal and Store: Close the jars tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Shake and Serve: Before eating, shake the jar well to distribute the dressing, then pour into a bowl or eat directly from the jar.

Variations

Vegan Option: Omit cheese or substitute with dairy-free alternatives.
Protein Boost: Add grilled tofu, tempeh, or extra beans for a heartier meal.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Nut-Free: Skip the nuts or replace with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 jar salads

Storage/Reheating

Store jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
No reheating is needed—simply shake and enjoy cold.
If the dressing thickens, let the jar sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaking.

FAQs

How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?

Layering the ingredients correctly by keeping the dressing at the bottom prevents sogginess.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This pasta salad is ideal for meal prep and stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

What type of jar should I use?

A 16-ounce or larger Mason jar works best to allow enough space for shaking and mixing.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or turkey slices can be added for extra protein.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing well and are easy to eat.

Is this pasta salad freezer-friendly?

No, freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the vegetables and pasta.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing enhances the freshness and flavor.

How do I make the dressing creamier?

Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or blended avocado for a creamy consistency.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes! Zucchini, carrots, radishes, or artichokes are great additions or swaps.

How do I serve this salad without a jar?

Simply mix all ingredients in a large bowl and serve immediately.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Italian pasta salad jar is a perfect blend of convenience, nutrition, and bold flavors. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a vibrant dish to bring to a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a fresh, delicious meal on the go!

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