Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a colorful, refreshing dish made with pasta, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or easy meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is bursting with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. It’s easy to make ahead, travels well, and is packed with texture—from the crunch of cucumbers to the creamy feta and juicy tomatoes. It’s a satisfying, balanced dish that works as a side or light main.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Short pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or farfalle)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumbers, sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Kalamata or black olives, pitted and sliced
Feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh basil or parsley
Olive oil
Red wine vinegar or lemon juice
Salt and black pepper
Optional: garlic, oregano, Dijon mustard

directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, olives, and feta.

3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional herbs or mustard.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.

5. Add chopped fresh herbs and mix again.

6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Servings and timing

Serves 6 to 8. Preparation time is 15 minutes. Cooking time for pasta is 10 minutes. Total time: approximately 25 minutes, plus optional chilling.

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

• Use mozzarella balls or goat cheese instead of feta.

• Toss in artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.

• Substitute with gluten-free or whole grain pasta as needed.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing. No reheating is required, as this salad is served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta salad in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta with ridges or twists like rotini or fusilli holds the dressing well and adds texture.

3. Can I use bottled dressing?

Homemade dressing is recommended for freshness, but a quality vinaigrette can be used in a pinch.

4. Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

5. Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

6. How do I keep the pasta from sticking?

Rinse it with cold water after cooking and toss with a little olive oil before mixing.

7. What herbs work best?

Fresh parsley and basil are excellent, but dill or mint can also add a refreshing twist.

8. Is this good for picnics or potlucks?

Absolutely. It’s sturdy, flavorful, and doesn’t require heating, making it ideal for transport.

9. Can I add greens like spinach?

Yes, tossing in a handful of baby spinach or arugula adds extra freshness.

10. How long can this sit out at room temperature?

It can safely sit out for up to 2 hours. Keep it chilled if serving later.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a versatile, flavorful dish that brings together the best of fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese in a vibrant vinaigrette. Whether for a casual lunch or a summer gathering, it’s a go-to recipe that’s both delicious and dependable.

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