Name: Angel Hair Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground pepper, to taste

I love when a dish manages to feel both elegant and effortless—and that’s exactly what this Angel Hair Pasta Salad delivers. It’s the kind of recipe I turn to when the sun’s shining, fresh produce is bursting with flavor, and I want something light but still satisfying. The fine texture of angel hair pasta catches every bit of vinaigrette, while juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and crumbled feta come together in every twirl. This isn’t your average pasta salad—it’s a bright, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s just as good at room temperature as it is fresh from the fridge.

What makes this salad even more special for me is how quickly it comes together. I can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for last-minute gatherings or an easy lunch during the week. Whether served as a side or a standalone dish, it always draws compliments. I love making it ahead of time so the flavors have time to mingle—somehow it tastes even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Angel Hair Pasta Salad

This salad is a celebration of freshness, flavor, and ease. Angel hair pasta gives it a delicate base that doesn’t feel heavy. With sweet cherry tomatoes, salty olives, tangy feta, and the peppery brightness of fresh basil, each bite delivers a balance of taste and texture. It’s vegetarian-friendly, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner. Plus, you don’t need any complicated ingredients—just pantry staples and a handful of seasonal produce.

What Kind of Angel Hair Pasta Should I Use?

I always recommend using traditional dry angel hair pasta for this salad—it cooks in just a few minutes and has the perfect tender bite for absorbing vinaigrette. Look for a high-quality brand that doesn’t overcook easily, since angel hair can go from al dente to mushy fast. If you’re shopping gluten-free, there are also excellent rice- or corn-based options that hold up well in cold pasta salads.

If you’re someone who prefers whole grain or high-protein pasta, those can also work, just keep an eye on cooking times. Fresh angel hair (capellini) is an option too, but it’s a bit more delicate and best if served immediately rather than made ahead.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this Angel Hair Pasta Salad is how flexible it is. You can easily make it your own depending on what you have or prefer:

Cheese: Swap feta with goat cheese, mini mozzarella balls, or shaved parmesan.
Vegetables: Add cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or thinly sliced red onion for extra crunch and variety.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even tuna for a more filling version.
Pasta Type: Substitute with thin spaghetti or vermicelli if angel hair isn’t available.
Olives: Use green olives or capers for a twist on the briny flavor.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or oregano can complement or even replace the basil depending on your taste.

These swaps let you tweak the flavor profile without losing the salad’s fresh and vibrant essence.

Ingredients for this Angel Hair Pasta Salad

Angel Hair Pasta: The base of this dish, offering a delicate and light texture that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients and vinaigrette.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a pop of color and a burst of freshness in every bite.
Olives: Black olives give a savory, briny element that balances out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Fresh Basil: The aromatic and slightly peppery basil adds a layer of brightness and depth to the dish.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta brings a tangy, salty richness that ties everything together perfectly.
Olive Oil: A high-quality olive oil acts as the foundation of the vinaigrette, providing smoothness and flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings acidity and a citrusy zing that enhances the other flavors.
Garlic: Adds a bit of warmth and aromatic depth, cutting through the richness of the cheese and olive oil.
Salt & Pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning the salad to perfection.

Each ingredient is chosen to complement the others, creating a refreshing, well-rounded dish that’s never too heavy but always satisfying.

Step 1: Cook the Angel Hair Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes. Since we’re making a salad, be careful not to overcook the pasta—it should remain al dente to hold up well when chilled. Drain the pasta and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside. If you’re using whole olives, slice them into rings or halve them, depending on your preference. Chop the fresh basil into thin ribbons, also known as chiffonade, for a lovely, fragrant finish.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—this vinaigrette should be bright, tangy, and a little savory.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled angel hair pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, and basil. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything gently until the pasta is evenly coated. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and give it a final toss.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick toss and enjoy!

How Long to Cook the Angel Hair Pasta Salad

This Angel Hair Pasta Salad comes together quite quickly, with the pasta taking only 3-4 minutes to cook. Once the pasta is drained and cooled, you’ll need just a few minutes to chop your vegetables, make the vinaigrette, and assemble the salad. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, the chilling step is optional but recommended for the best flavor.

Overall, you can expect the entire process to take about 30 minutes, including prep and chilling time. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it right away, but the extra chilling time really helps the flavors develop.

Tips for Perfect Angel Hair Pasta Salad

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, so be sure to check it at the 3-minute mark to avoid it becoming too soft. Since this is a salad, you want the pasta to hold its shape and texture.
Cool the Pasta Quickly: After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad. This will prevent it from continuing to cook in the residual heat.
Balance the Flavors: Taste the vinaigrette before mixing it into the salad. You want the right balance of acidity from the lemon juice, richness from the olive oil, and saltiness from the feta and olives.
Use Fresh Ingredients: The tomatoes and basil are the stars of this salad, so using fresh, ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil will really elevate the flavor.
Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better when it sits for a few hours, allowing the ingredients to marinate in the dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep or a make-ahead dish for gatherings.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Since angel hair cooks quickly, it’s easy to accidentally overdo it. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture, which won’t hold up well in a salad. Keep a close eye on it and drain as soon as it’s al dente.
Not Cooling the Pasta: After cooking the pasta, it’s crucial to cool it down under cold running water. If you don’t, the pasta can clump together or continue cooking in its own heat, affecting the texture.
Not Seasoning the Vinaigrette: A good vinaigrette is key to this salad. If the vinaigrette is too bland or overly acidic, it can affect the overall flavor of the dish. Be sure to taste it before adding and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Forgetting to Chill: While you can eat this salad right away, chilling it helps the flavors meld and intensify. Don’t skip this step if you want the best result.

What to Serve With Angel Hair Pasta Salad?

1. Grilled Chicken

A lean protein like grilled chicken breast pairs beautifully with this salad, making it a complete meal. You can also marinate the chicken in a lemony herb dressing for added flavor.

2. Grilled Vegetables

Charred vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers are perfect alongside this salad for a Mediterranean-style meal.

3. Fresh Bread

Serve with some crusty bread or a baguette to soak up any leftover vinaigrette or juices from the salad.

4. Shrimp

For seafood lovers, grilled or sautéed shrimp adds a lovely, light touch to this pasta salad.

5. Roasted Potatoes

A side of roasted potatoes with garlic and herbs offers a hearty complement to the lightness of the pasta salad.

6. Hummus

For a bit of extra flavor and texture, serve some creamy hummus on the side with sliced veggies or pita bread.

7. Green Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the feta and olives in the pasta salad.

8. Wine Pairing

Pair this salad with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Rosé to enhance the fresh, Mediterranean flavors.

Storage Instructions

To store your Angel Hair Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 2 to 3 days in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

If you find that the salad is a bit dry after being stored, simply toss it with a little more olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.

Estimated Nutrition

While the exact nutritional content will depend on the specific ingredients used, here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving (assuming the recipe yields 6 servings):

Calories: 250–300
Fat: 18–20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 20–25g
Fiber: 2–3g
Protein: 5–7g
Sugar: 3–4g
Cholesterol: 15–20mg
Sodium: 400–500mg

This salad is a balanced dish with a healthy dose of fats from the olive oil and feta, plenty of fresh vegetables, and a moderate amount of carbohydrates from the pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, making it ahead of time helps the flavors meld together, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap the angel hair for another type of pasta like spaghetti, fusilli, or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you use.

3. How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad should last about 2–3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

4. Can I freeze this pasta salad?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad because the pasta will become mushy once thawed, and the fresh vegetables won’t hold up well in the freezer.

5. What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese, shredded mozzarella, or even a sharp parmesan cheese for a similar texture and flavor.

6. Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it more filling. Just toss it in when you combine all the ingredients.

7. Can I make the vinaigrette without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can omit it from the vinaigrette and still have a delicious dressing. You could also add a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

8. Can I use store-bought dressing instead of making my own?

While homemade vinaigrette is best for this salad, you can use a store-bought Italian or lemon vinaigrette as a shortcut if you’re short on time.

Conclusion

This Angel Hair Pasta Salad is a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, preparing it for a picnic, or just enjoying it as a quick and healthy meal, it’s sure to impress. With its bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavors and versatility in ingredients, it’s a salad you’ll come back to again and again. Enjoy every bite!