Save A vibrant, refreshing pasta salad featuring tangy feta, briny olives, ripe tomatoes, and crisp vegetables—all tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing. The perfect light Mediterranean-inspired plate for warm weeknight dinners.
This salad quickly became a favorite for warm evenings. I love how simple ingredients come together for a bright and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle), Salt for boiling water
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 medium cucumber diced, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1/2 red bell pepper diced
- Cheese & Olives: 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese crumbled, 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
- Dressing: 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh basil sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cherry tomatoes cucumber red onion and red bell pepper.
- Step 3:
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the vegetables.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl or jar whisk together olive oil lemon juice oregano garlic salt and pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 5:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 6:
- Add the crumbled feta cheese Kalamata olives parsley and basil (if using). Toss lightly to distribute.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Save This recipe always brings my family together for a light and tasty dinner we all enjoy.
Notes
Excellent with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé.
Required Tools
Large pot Colander Large mixing bowl Small bowl or jar (for dressing) Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (feta cheese) Wheat (pasta). For gluten-free Use certified gluten-free pasta. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save This Mediterranean pasta salad is a quick way to enjoy fresh flavors any night of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing well and complement the crunchy vegetables.
- → Can I prepare this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a few hours in advance allows flavors to meld, and serving chilled or at room temperature enhances freshness.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with certified gluten-free pasta without altering the other ingredients.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this salad?
Fresh parsley and optional basil contribute bright, herbal notes that complement the olives and feta.
- → Are there suggested pairings with this Mediterranean dish?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp and a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry rosé.
- → Can I add extra vegetables to this salad?
Yes, adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts provides additional flavor and texture variety.