When the summer sun begins to shine, I find myself craving dishes that burst with fresh, vibrant flavors. That’s exactly what this 5-Star Greek Pasta Salad delivers! Just imagine the texture of perfectly cooked rotini tangled up with crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny kalamata olives, all embraced by creamy feta cheese. The best part? This dish can effortlessly transition from a light lunch to a delightful side at your next BBQ.
I initially stumbled upon this recipe during a search for something more exciting than my usual quick meals. With every bite, the zesty homemade dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a hint of Dijon mustard dances on my palate, evoking memories of Mediterranean summer afternoons. Plus, it’s fully customizable: toss in pepperoncini for a kick or artichoke hearts for added depth—this salad truly caters to your taste!
Whether you’re meal prepping for a week of busy lunches or looking to impress friends at a gathering, this Greek Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives is a sure-fire way to bring cheerful flavors to the table. Let’s dive into the recipe that will transform your meals from mundane to magnificent!
Why You’ll Love This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe is a breeze to whip up, requiring minimal cooking skills while still delivering stunning results.
Vibrant flavors: The explosion of fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and briny olives create an irresistible Mediterranean experience in every bite.
Fully customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients, such as pepperoncini for heat or grilled chicken for protein!
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or just a normal weekday meal, this salad shines as a side dish or a light lunch.
Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and store in the fridge; it keeps well for up to four days, making it a smart choice for busy schedules.
Greek Pasta Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta – This forms the body of the dish; any short pasta shape can be substituted.
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved – These add a burst of sweetness; feel free to switch to grape or heirloom tomatoes.
- 1 cucumber, diced – Adds a refreshing crunch; zucchini can serve as a substitute if desired.
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped – Brings a sweet crunch; any bell pepper color works well.
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced – Offers a sharp flavor; green onions provide a milder taste instead.
- ½ cup kalamata olives, halved – Gives brininess and depth; regular black olives can also be used but will alter the flavor.
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese – Brings rich creaminess and tang; goat cheese can be a lovely alternative.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional) – Enhances freshness; any herb like basil can be substituted.
For the Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and serves as the dressing base; avocado oil can be an option but might change the flavor.
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar – Provides a zesty acidity; apple cider vinegar can be an effective swap.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Thickens the dressing while adding a delightful kick; consider yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Infuses flavor and aroma; garlic powder can be substituted in smaller amounts if needed.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – An essential Mediterranean herb; fresh oregano can be used in larger quantities if available.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust based on dietary needs.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight warmth; feel free to adjust per your taste.
Creating this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors right to your table, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite!
How to Make Greek Pasta Salad
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Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling the rotini or penne pasta in salted water until al dente, which should take about 10 minutes. Once cooked, rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down.
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Chop the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, take this time to dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion and kalamata olives.
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Make the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.
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Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the cooled pasta with your prepped vegetables, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese until evenly distributed.
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Add dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to ensure that all ingredients are well coated in the flavorful dressing.
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Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
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Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, garnish with extra feta and fresh herbs if desired. Serve your Greek Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature for maximum freshness!
Optional: Add extra fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this vibrant salad with delightful complements that elevate every bite.
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Grilled Lemon Chicken: The zesty flavors of grilled lemon chicken add a smoky depth that harmonizes beautifully with the salad’s freshness.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery breadsticks bring a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the cool, crisp salad.
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Tzatziki Dip: This creamy yogurt and cucumber dip pairs seamlessly alongside, amplifying the Mediterranean vibes of your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Savory roasted veggies provide a hearty, earthy balance, making your table burst with color and flavor.
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Feta-Stuffed Peppers: These bring a delightful nod to the feta in your salad, enriching your meal with a tart, cheesy kick.
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Sparkling Lemonade: An effervescent drink adds refreshing acidity, enhancing the overall lightness of the meal while quenching your thirst.
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Baklava: A sweet finish of flaky baklava offers a delicious contrast to the savory notes, rounding out the Mediterranean experience with a delightful crunch.
These pairings not only enhance the delightful flavors of your Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives, but they also create a well-rounded meal for all your loved ones to enjoy.
Greek Pasta Salad Variations
Feel free to make this delicious Greek Pasta Salad uniquely yours with these fun and flavorful twists!
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Grilled Chicken: Add sliced grilled chicken breast for a heartier salad that boosts your protein intake. It pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors.
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Chickpeas: Toss in a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas to add fiber and texture, making the dish even more filling without losing its fresh essence.
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Pepperoncini: For a zesty punch, mix in sliced pepperoncini. Their tangy heat elevates the salad and creates a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the feta.
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Artichoke Hearts: Chopped marinated artichoke hearts offer a beautiful briny taste and a chewy texture, enhancing the Mediterranean flair of your salad.
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Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and savory flavor burst. They add depth to the salad and a hint of sweetness that balances well with the tartness of the olives.
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Pesto: Drizzle in a few tablespoons of basil pesto for a fragrant herby twist. This transforms the dressing and infuses your salad with a vibrant green, aromatic delight.
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Zucchini Noodles: Substitute some pasta with spiralized zucchini for a lighter, gluten-free option. It adds a fresh crunch and makes the salad feel extra summer-ready.
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Feta Alternatives: Experiment with crumbled goat cheese or vegan feta for a different flavor profile. Each offers unique creamy notes that enhances the overall experience!
Expert Tips for Greek Pasta Salad
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Salt the Water: Generously salt the pasta water for optimal flavor absorption during cooking; it makes a huge difference in the final dish.
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Rinse the Pasta: After cooking, rinse your pasta under cold water to halt the cooking process and remove excess starch. This keeps the pasta from becoming gummy.
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Uniform Cuts: Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces for even bites, ensuring that each forkful of your Greek Pasta Salad is packed with balanced flavors.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in high-quality feta and kalamata olives for the best flavor in your salad. The freshness of these key ingredients is paramount to the overall taste.
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Chill for Flavors: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes (or even a day ahead) to enhance the melding of flavors. This step is essential for a delicious Greek Pasta Salad recipe with feta and olives.
How to Store and Freeze Greek Pasta Salad
Fridge: Store your Greek Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Freezer: While not recommended, if you must freeze it, place the salad in a freezer-safe container. It may last up to 2 months but could lose some texture upon thawing.
Reheating: If serving warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to restore moisture and flavor.
Room Temperature: For best taste, bring your Greek Pasta Salad to room temperature before serving; enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Make Ahead Options
These Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors any day of the week! You can cook the pasta and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, combine the prepped ingredients with the dressing and toss gently. For the best results, refrigerate the assembled salad for at least 30 minutes before serving so that the flavors meld deliciously. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll savor a quick, delightful meal on busy weekdays!
Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Greek Pasta Salad?
When selecting tomatoes, look for plump, firm ones without any dark spots; they should have a sweet aroma. For cucumbers, pick ones that are firm and bright green, avoiding those that feel soft or have blemishes. Fresh herbs should be vibrant with no wilted leaves, ensuring that your salad bursts with fresh flavors.
How should I store my Greek Pasta Salad?
Store your Greek Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best to give it a gentle stir before serving to mix and invigorate the flavors again. Avoid storing it in metal containers as the vinegar can react with the metal, altering taste.
Can I freeze Greek Pasta Salad?
While I personally don’t recommend freezing this salad as it may change the texture of the vegetables and pasta, you can freeze it if needed. Place the salad in a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and stir in a little extra olive oil to restore some moisture.
What are common issues when making Greek Pasta Salad?
One common challenge is overcooked pasta, which can lead to a mushy texture. Always cook pasta to al dente according to package instructions and rinse it under cold water right after cooking to stop the cooking process. If the salad seems too dry, try adding more dressing or a splash of olive oil to enhance its flavor and moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Greek Pasta Salad is vegetarian, making it a fantastic option for meat-free meals. If you’re serving it to guests with allergies, be cautious of the feta and olives, as some people may have sensitivities to dairy or specific types of olives. You can easily substitute with vegan cheese or omit cheese altogether if necessary.
How can I customize my Greek Pasta Salad?
The beauty of this Greek Pasta Salad recipe with feta and olives is its versatility! Feel free to toss in your favorite ingredients, like pepperoncini for some heat, grilled chicken for added protein, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor. Experiment with different pasta shapes or seasonal veggies to keep things interesting.
Greek Pasta Salad Recipe with Feta and Olives: Fresh & Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta by boiling the rotini or penne in salted water until al dente, about 10 minutes. Rinse under cold water to cool.
- Chop the vegetables: dice cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, chop bell pepper, and slice red onion and kalamata olives.
- Make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine cooled pasta with prepped vegetables, kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese until evenly mixed.
- Add dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra feta and fresh herbs if desired.