If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh dish that bursts with flavors from sun-soaked shores, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a colorful medley of tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, salty olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a tangy, herbaceous dressing. This recipe is not just a salad; it’s a celebration of Mediterranean ingredients harmoniously coming together, perfect for brightening up any meal or gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe lies in its simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a deliciously balanced dish. From the satisfying bite of al dente pasta to the freshness of garden veggies and the punch of classic Mediterranean seasonings, prepare to be amazed at how these essentials transform into something extraordinary.
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta: Choose a shape that holds dressing well for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy and sweet, they add vibrant color and freshness.
- 1 cup cucumber (diced): Adds a crisp, cooling contrast to the salad’s flavors.
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced): A sharp, tangy note that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives (pitted and sliced): Brings a salty, briny depth that’s unmistakably Mediterranean.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, it enriches every forkful.
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers (chopped): Adds smoky sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens the dish with a fresh herbaceous note.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: The heart of the dressing, adding smooth richness.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides tang and balances the richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that lifts all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers classic Mediterranean herbal flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory warmth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essentials that enhance and unify every ingredient.
How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by preparing the pasta. Boil salted water and cook the rotini or penne until just al dente, making sure the pasta retains a slight bite to complement the crunchy veggies. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking and chill the pasta, which also prevents sticking later on.
Step 2: Combine the Vegetables and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, and fresh parsley. This colorful combination makes the salad irresistible even before you add the dressing.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
Whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or jar. This simple vinaigrette is the magic that pulls the whole salad together with its bright and savory personality.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything until evenly coated. For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting period lets the flavors marry beautifully, giving you a more vibrant and harmonious taste experience.
How to Serve Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe, consider adding fresh extras on top before serving. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or extra parsley adds an herbal note, while a few whole olives or a crumble of feta creates visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor. A light drizzle of olive oil right before serving can also add a beautiful sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or lamb skewers, making your meal heartier without overpowering the delicate Mediterranean flavors. For a vegetarian spread, serve it alongside warm pita bread, hummus, or a simple green salad to complete a balanced and satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or cucumber boats for a party or picnic. Layer it in clear glass jars for an attractive grab-and-go lunch option. You could also turn it into a stuffed pita sandwich for a portable, delicious meal on the move.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad holds up exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much dressing and becoming soggy.
Freezing
Because of its fresh vegetable content and feta cheese, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and chilled rather than frozen. Freezing can alter the texture and flavor of the ingredients, leaving your salad less lively after thawing.
Reheating
This pasta salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer, you can let leftovers sit at room temperature briefly before serving to take the chill off and allow the flavors to open up.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or penne are ideal for holding the dressing, you can swap in fusilli, farfalle, or even small shells depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
You can easily make this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe vegan by omitting the feta cheese or substituting it with a vegan cheese alternative. The rest of the salad is naturally plant-based and packed with flavor.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully, but if you have more time, an hour or two in the fridge will deepen the taste even further.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp work wonderfully with this recipe to turn it into a more filling main dish without compromising its fresh Mediterranean taste.
What’s the best way to prevent the salad from getting soggy?
Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking helps stop it from overcooking and sticking, keeping the texture perfect. Also, store the salad in an airtight container and avoid heavy dressing amounts until just before serving if making far in advance.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for sunny days, quick lunches, or lively gatherings. It’s a delicious, colorful, and wholesome option that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Trust me, every bite bursts with freshness and Mediterranean sunshine that you’ll want to share again and again!
Print
Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad packed with colorful vegetables, feta cheese, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for summer meals, potlucks, or as a light lunch, this recipe combines al dente pasta with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and bright herbs for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse 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, sliced kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, and fresh parsley. Gently toss to combine.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for best taste.
Notes
- For additional protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad.
- This pasta salad is ideal for make-ahead meals, picnics, or potlucks.
- It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
