Quick Summer Salad for Families

A Quick Summer Salad for busy families

Summer is upon us, bringing with it the vibrant flavors of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s the perfect season for light, refreshing meals that complement the sunny days and social gatherings. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a party, or simply enjoying a meal at home, this Chilled Greek Pasta Salad with Chickpeas is your go-to dish. Plus, it’s quick, nutritious, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This delightful salad is a breeze to prepare, altogether it takes only 15 minutes (if your pasta is pre-cooked). Furthermore, it’s ideal for meal prep, staying fresh in the fridge for 2-3 days, and providing a nutritious, satisfying option for busy days. The combination of pasta, chickpeas, and colourful veggies ensures you’ll feel full and energized, ready to enjoy the summer social scene.

Embrace Summer with a Refreshing Chilled Greek Pasta Salad

Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and cooled whole wheat pasta
Canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained x1 cup
Cucumber, diced x1
Bell pepper, diced (any colour) x1
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup
Kalamata olives, halved, 1/4 cup
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, 1/4 cup

Dressing: 3 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp dried oregano (optional)

Instructions: Cook the pasta according to the packet directions and let it cool. Then, in a large bowl, mix together the pasta, chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, tomatoes, feta, olives, and parsley. Afterwards, whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and oregano in a smaller bowl. To finish, pour the dressing over the salad, tossing well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the full flavors.

Hot Tips for a Perfect Salad

Protein Boost: Buy a pre-cooked BBQ chicken & shred for extra protein. From Brisbane to Sydney find your local chook place!
Crunch Factor: Incorporate a base of spinach leaves or chopped cos lettuce.
On-the-Go Dressing: Mix the dressing in advance and store it in a glass container.
Pasta Alternatives: Instead of pasta swap it with quinoa, risoni, or keep it green with lettuce/spinach.

Meal Prep Mastery

• Batch Cooking: Prepare pasta and chicken a few days in advance and store in airtight containers for easy access.
• Pre-Chop Veggies: Save time by chopping veggies ahead of time and storing them in the fridge.
• Versatile Leftovers: Use leftover pasta and chicken in other salads, soups, or wraps.

This Chilled Greek Pasta Salad is the perfect addition to your summer meal rotation. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you fueled and ready for fun-filled days. Summing up this is the best way to enjoy the vibrant tastes of summer with an easy and versatile dish.

Lisa Price is based in Winston Hills, Sydney, Australia