Healthy Pasta Salad with Whole Wheat and Greens 🥬🍝 Hearty, Leafy, and Packed with Fresh-Pressed Flavor

Healthy Pasta Salad with Whole Wheat and Greens is your nutrient-dense twist on a classic — whole wheat pasta for fiber and chew, fresh greens for bite and brightness, and a light vinaigrette that ties it all together.

This is salad that eats like a meal, no mayo or heavy dressing required.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 12 oz whole wheat short pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
• 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¾ cup cucumber, chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ avocado, diced (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
• Optional: 2–4 tbsp crumbled feta or goat cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, and sweetener until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta with chopped vegetables and greens. Add herbs and cheese (if using), then pour over the vinaigrette. Toss gently until everything is coated.

Step 4: Chill or Serve

Serve immediately for a fresher feel, or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Add more dressing or fresh greens before serving if needed.

Variations

• Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for protein
• Swap spinach for kale or mixed greens
• Use quinoa pasta or lentil pasta for gluten-free boost
• Add toasted almonds, seeds, or walnuts for crunch

Serving Ideas

• Ideal for healthy meal prep or packed lunches
• Pair with grilled fish or tofu for a balanced dinner
• Top with a poached egg for a brunch twist
• Serve on a bed of romaine or massaged kale for extra greens

Pro Tips

• Dress pasta while slightly warm for better absorption
• Add delicate greens right before serving to prevent wilting
• Taste again after chilling — pasta salads often need a seasoning refresh
• Store in the fridge up to 3 days — add avocado just before eating

Final Thoughts

Healthy Pasta Salad with Whole Wheat and Greens is proof that light can still be hearty. With chewy pasta, crisp vegetables, and a clean citrusy dressing, it hits that feel-good balance of nourishment and flavor.

Toss it green. Chill it clean. Fork it fresh. 🥬🍝🌿