One of My Favorite Salads

Today, I will share one of the easiest and most delicious salads you’ll ever try! I’ve always loved Mediterranean flavors, and this Greek Pasta Salad combines everything I love into one refreshing dish. It’s packed with crunchy vegetables, tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and a light, zesty dressing.

It can be the best side dish for summer cookouts, quick lunches, or even a light dinner. I make this salad when I need something fresh, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The combination of tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta makes every bite absolutely delicious.

When I make this recipe, I love to experiment with different ingredients. Sometimes I add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even avocado for extra texture and flavor. But no matter what, the bold flavors of feta, olives, and oregano always shine through.

If you like light, tangy, and colorful dishes, this salad will become a favorite in your kitchen, too. The result is just amazing! You’ll love it, and it’s the perfect salad for any occasion.

What Makes This Greek Pasta Salad Special?

This Greek Pasta Salad is special because it’s a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors and textures. It’s light yet filling, tangy yet refreshing, and super easy to customize. The dressing is simple but bold, and it brings everything together in the most delicious way! Plus, it’s loaded with healthy ingredients, making it a guilt-free dish you can enjoy anytime.

Perfect For:

• Summer Gatherings – Cool and refreshing for warm days.
• Potlucks & Picnics – Easy to transport and serve.
• Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days in the fridge.
• Quick Weeknight Dinners – A no-fuss meal that’s ready in minutes.
• Healthy Eating – Packed with fiber, protein, and fresh veggies, making it a nutritious option.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of half a lemon

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot (for cooking pasta)
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk (for dressing)
• Knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Storage containers (for meal prep or leftovers)

How to make Greek Pasta Salad

Step 1:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.

Step 4:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Greek feta has the best flavor and texture for this salad. Crumbled or cubed feta both work well.
• Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the dressing and won’t get soggy.
• This stops the cooking process and helps keep the salad fresh while preventing it from clumping together.
• Chilling it for at least 30 minutes to an hour enhances the flavors and allows everything to soak up the dressing.
• Use fresh oregano, parsley, or basil for extra flavor and a touch of brightness.
• If you like it tangier, add more lemon juice or vinegar. For a richer dressing, add a splash of extra virgin olive oil.
• Whisking the dressing before adding ensures even coating and helps distribute the flavors better.

Optional Ingredients

• Grilled Chicken – Adds protein for a full meal.
• Chickpeas – A great vegetarian protein source.
• Avocado Slices – Creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Capers – Adds a briny, salty bite that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
• Pine Nuts or Almonds – A mild, nutty crunch that pairs well with the salad’s texture.
• Roasted Red Peppers – Sweet and smoky contrast that complements the olives and feta.

What to Pair with Greek Pasta Salad?

If you love Mediterranean flavors, pair this salad with grilled chicken, lamb, or shrimp. The combination of charred meat and cool pasta salad is irresistible.

For a vegetarian meal, serve it with hummus, pita bread, falafel, or stuffed grape leaves. It adds more texture while keeping the dish light yet filling.

If you’re bringing it to a potluck or picnic, consider pairing it with fresh fruit, tzatziki sauce, or grilled veggies for a full Mediterranean feast.

For a quick lunch, enjoy it with a bowl of soup, a side of olives, or a light green salad for a well-balanced meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Mediterranean Version – Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, roasted eggplant, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a deep Mediterranean twist.

Spicy Kick – Mix in red pepper flakes, chili oil, sriracha, harissa, or chopped fresh jalapeños to turn up the heat.

Extra Protein Boost – Swap out some of the veggies for grilled shrimp, flaked salmon, grilled turkey, or shredded rotisserie chicken. Hard-boiled eggs also work well.

Pesto Greek Pasta Salad – Replace the vinaigrette with basil pesto, lemon zest, and toasted pine nuts for a richer, herby flavor.

Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free feta cheese or omit the cheese entirely, and add extra olives or nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy taste.

Vegan Option – Substitute feta with crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and oregano, and increase the chickpeas or white beans for additional plant-based protein.

Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Option – Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even quinoa or cauliflower rice to keep it light and allergy-friendly.

Nut-Free Version – Simply omit nuts or replace them with crunchy sunflower seeds, pepitas, or roasted chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.

How to Store

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If the salad looks dry, add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving to refresh it.

If making ahead, store the dressing separately and toss everything together before serving to keep it crisp and fresh.

FAQ

How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Cook the pasta al dente and rinse it under cold water immediately after draining. This stops the cooking process and keeps it firm.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta work best, you can also use orzo, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

What’s the best dressing for Greek Pasta Salad?

A classic red wine vinaigrette with olive oil, oregano, lemon juice, and garlic works best. You can also use a Greek yogurt dressing for a creamier version.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 4 days. Just stir it and add a splash of olive oil before serving if needed.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to make it gluten-free.

What proteins can I add to this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, chickpeas, or hard-boiled eggs all work great for extra protein.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead of homemade?

Of course! A bottled Greek vinaigrette is a great time-saver, but homemade dressing offers a fresher taste.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

Try goat cheese, shredded Parmesan, or dairy-free feta if you need an alternative.

What are some crunchy additions for more texture?

You can add toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or crispy chickpeas for extra crunch and flavor.

Greek Pasta Salad

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: SaladsCuisine: Greek, MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Total time

25

minutes

This Greek Pasta Salad is light, tangy, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. The mix of feta cheese, olives, and crisp vegetables makes it a perfect side dish, meal prep option, or picnic favorite!

Ingredients

• For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ¾ cup kalamata olives, sliced

• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Juice of half a lemon

Directions

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.
• In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
• Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.