When entertaining a crowd, a delicious cold pasta salad can be the perfect addition to your spread. Not only are they easy to prepare in large quantities, but they also offer vibrant flavours and textures that please a variety of palates. One popular option is a Mediterranean pasta salad, featuring al dente fusilli tossed with ripe cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, crisp cucumber, and cubes of feta cheese, all brought together with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar. For a touch of freshness, consider adding a handful of chopped basil or parsley.

Another crowd-pleaser is the classic pasta salad with a creamy dressing. Combining penne with diced bell peppers, sweetcorn, and shredded chicken, this salad can be enlivened with a tangy mixture of mayonnaise, Greek yoghurt, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Finish it off with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and some chopped chives for an extra pop of flavour.

Whether catering for a picnic, barbecue, or family gathering, these cold pasta salads not only look inviting but also allow your guests to serve themselves and enjoy at their leisure. Perfect for warm weather, they are a delightful way to keep the meal light yet satisfying.

Moroccan cuisine, known for its vibrant flavours and aromatic spices, offers a delightful array of salads that are as diverse as they are delicious. For salad lovers seeking to expand their culinary horizons, here are 11 must-try Moroccan salads that showcase the very best of this North African tradition.

1. Taktouka - A smoky mix of roasted peppers and tomatoes, expertly seasoned with garlic, cumin, and coriander. This salad is not only refreshing but also boasts a deep, rich flavour profile.

2. Zaalouk - A warm, spiced aubergine and tomato salad that is perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic. Served as a dip or side dish, it embodies the essence of Moroccan comfort food.

3. Carrot and Orange Salad - A refreshing combination of grated carrots, thinly sliced oranges, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This salad is a delightful sweet and savoury blend that is both light and invigorating.

4. Chickpea Salad - Packed with protein, this salad features chickpeas mixed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s a hearty option that still feels fresh and lively.

5. Fattoush - While traditionally a Levantine dish, Moroccan variations abound. This salad combines crispy bread with mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and a tangy dressing that elevates its flavour.

6. Cabbage Salad - Shredded cabbage tossed with carrots, olives, and a zesty lemon dressing creates a crunchy, satisfying salad that accompanies many Moroccan meals.

7. Beetroot Salad - Vibrant and earthy, this salad features roasted beetroot mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, making it a visually striking and nutritious option.

8. Lentil Salad - Nutty lentils, paired with diced tomatoes, onions, and a sprinkle of cumin, create a wholesome salad that’s both filling and healthy.

9. Mint and Cucumber Salad - A refreshing and aromatic mix of cucumbers, fresh mint, and yogurt dressing, this salad provides a cooling contrast to the spicier dishes typical of Moroccan cuisine.

10. Pomegranate Seed Salad - Bursting with flavour, this salad combines pomegranate seeds, walnuts, and leafy greens, drizzled with a honey-lemon dressing for a delightful crunch.

11. Avocado and Fennel Salad - A surprising twist in Moroccan salads, this dish features creamy avocado paired with thinly sliced fennel, dressed in citrus vinaigrette for a fresh, invigorating experience.

These Moroccan salads not only cater to diverse palates but also celebrate the country’s abundant use of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavours. Each dish tells a story of tradition and innovation, inviting salad enthusiasts to indulge in the culinary richness of Morocco.

Discover a delightful twist on a classic salad with the Simple Romaine Caesar Salad featuring Crispy Chickpea Croutons, perfect for a vegan option! This refreshing dish combines crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy, dairy-free Caesar dressing, ensuring a burst of flavour in every bite. The roasted chickpea croutons add a satisfying crunch and a nutritious boost, making this salad both hearty and healthy. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side dish, this recipe from Healthy Little Vittles is simple to prepare and brimming with the goodness of plant-based ingredients. Enjoy a nourishing meal that’s delicious and guilt-free!

Greek salad, a delightful medley of fresh ingredients, is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavour. Imagine vibrant chunks of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and succulent bell peppers tossed together in a bowl, their colours reminiscent of the sun-soaked Mediterranean. The addition of creamy feta cheese crumbled on top adds a rich and salty note, perfectly complemented by briny olives. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano unite the ingredients, enhancing their natural taste. This invigorating salad serves as a perfect accompaniment to any meal or as a refreshing standalone dish, capturing the essence of Greek cuisine with every bite.

Meal Prep Idea: 4 Healthy Mason Jar Salads

Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time during the week while ensuring you enjoy healthy and delicious meals. These four mason jar salads are not only vibrant and full of flavour, but they also allow for easy storage and transport. Each jar layers fresh ingredients in a way that keeps them crisp and delightful until you’re ready to eat.

1. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Start with a base of cooked quinoa, then layer diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a generous handful of chickpeas. Top with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of dried oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing taste of the Mediterranean.

2. Asian-Inspired Noodle Salad
Begin with a layer of cooked soba noodles, followed by shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and sugar snap peas. Add a handful of edamame and chopped spring onions for a burst of colour. Dress with a tangy sesame dressing before sealing the jar, and enjoy a crunchy, flavour-packed meal.

3. Classic Caesar Salad
Layer chopped romaine lettuce at the bottom, followed by cherry tomatoes and sliced grilled chicken breast. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and some wholegrain croutons on top. Keep Caesar dressing separate to maintain crunchiness, adding it just before digging in for a classic flavour combination.

4. Mexican Bean Salad
Start with a base of black beans and corn, then layer diced red onion, chopped avocados, and fresh cilantro. Add a layer of salsa for a zesty kick. This hearty salad brings a fiesta to your lunch with its colourful ingredients and satisfying textures.

Each of these salads can be prepared in advance, stored in the fridge, and enjoyed throughout the week. Simply shake the jar before serving, and you’ll have a nutritious and tasty meal ready to go!