If you’ve been searching for a salad that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, loads on fresh veggies, and satisfies with every bite, then you absolutely need to try this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe. This delightful dish brings together the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, the briny punch of Kalamata olives, and the bright, refreshing crunch of cucumber and cherry tomatoes—each element plays a starring role. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a picnic treat, or a show-stopping side for your next barbecue, this salad offers the perfect balance of textures and tastes that feel like a warm Greek breeze in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe is a breeze, thanks to its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one contributes something special—from the hearty pasta base to the zesty dressing that ties everything together, you’ll love how these simple components come alive in harmony.
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta: Choose spiral or tube shapes to hold onto the dressing and veggies perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced: Brings crispness and a refreshing cool bite.
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Provides a gentle bite and a lovely purple hue.
- 3/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved: Offers that essential salty depth and Mediterranean authenticity.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy tanginess that’s a hallmark of Greek salads.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Imparts fresh, herbaceous notes enhancing every forkful.
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: The golden elixir that gives the dressing a luscious mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Lends a sharp acidity to brighten the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds zesty freshness and balance.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that elevates the dressing’s aroma.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together harmoniously.
How to Make Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling your rotini or penne pasta in generously salted water until just al dente. Don’t overcook because you want the pasta to have a little bite and hold its shape well. Once done, drain and immediately rinse it under cold water; this stops the cooking and cools the pasta to prepare it for the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Veggies and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the crisp cherry tomatoes, refreshing diced cucumber, thin slices of red onion, flavorful Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and freshly chopped parsley. This mix brings a beautiful palette of color and texture that makes every serving inviting and exciting.
Step 3: Prepare the Zesty Dressing
Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or jar. This dressing is what unites the salad’s ingredients with its vibrant, tangy, and herbaceous notes. Give it a good whisk until it’s emulsified and ready to shine.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything together to ensure every bit is coated with that delicious dressing. For the best flavor, chill your Greek Pasta Salad Recipe for at least 30 minutes—this resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or a few more crumbles of feta cheese on top just before serving. A drizzle of good olive oil or a light dusting of paprika adds a luxury touch that makes the presentation pop and the taste even more memorable.
Side Dishes
This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken souvlaki or lamb kebabs, but it’s equally fantastic alongside crusty bread or a light, lemony soup. It’s versatile enough to complement any summer spread you have in mind.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the salad in individual mason jars or hollowed-out bell peppers for picnics and parties. You can also layer it with dollops of hummus or tzatziki for a Mediterranean mezze platter that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness, and give it a good toss before serving again—sometimes the flavors intensify beautifully overnight!
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and the feta cheese, freezing this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe is not recommended; textures and flavors can change unfavorably when thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer a warm twist, try heating plain pasta separately and then combining it with the salad ingredients cold.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini or penne are ideal for holding onto the dressing and veggies, other shapes like farfalle or fusilli can work beautifully. Just avoid super small or very thin pasta, which may get lost among the fresh ingredients.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, packed with fresh vegetables, bold olives, and creamy feta cheese. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas would be excellent additions.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes is perfect to allow the flavors to blend well. If you make it a day ahead, it tastes even better as the herbs and dressing get more time to infuse the pasta and vegetables.
Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and follow the recipe as usual. The fresh ingredients and dressing won’t be affected by the gluten-free version at all.
What variations can I try with this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe?
Feel free to customize! Add grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, or swap the Kalamata olives for green olives if you prefer. You can also experiment with herbs like dill or mint for a fresh twist.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe has become a beloved favorite of mine, and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s the kind of dish that brings sunshine to your table, no matter the season. Give it a try, and let its fresh, vibrant flavors transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite—you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, guaranteed!
Print
Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and colorful Greek pasta salad featuring al dente rotini or penne pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese, all coated in a tangy oregano and lemon vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a summer side dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup Kalamata olives, halved
Cheese and Herbs
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side or light main dish.
Notes
- This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance to enhance flavor depth.
- To make it a complete meal, add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- For gluten-free options, substitute the pasta with your preferred gluten-free variety.
