Why make this recipe
Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings fresh flavors and colorful ingredients together. It is perfect for a light lunch, a side at dinner, or a picnic treat. With its combination of pasta, crunchy vegetables, and savory feta cheese, it’s not just tasty but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
How to make Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How to serve Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Serve Mediterranean Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s a great side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed alone as a light and refreshing meal. Adding a sprinkle of extra feta or a drizzle of olive oil before serving can enhance the flavor even more.
How to store Mediterranean Pasta Salad
You can store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. If the dressing makes the pasta too soggy after a couple of days, consider adding a bit more olive oil and vinegar when ready to eat.
Tips to make Mediterranean Pasta Salad
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
- To keep the salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Make it a protein-packed meal by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Variation
Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor or replace feta cheese with mozzarella for a milder taste. You can also experiment with different types of olives for varied flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is great for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to blend.
2. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can use mozzarella, goat cheese, or even parmesan instead of feta.
3. What other dressings work well?
While the olive oil and vinegar dressing is classic, you can also try a lemon vinaigrette or a store-bought Italian dressing for different flavors.
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of pasta, fresh vegetables, and feta cheese, perfect for a light lunch or as a picnic treat.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Great for serving chilled or at room temperature. Enhance flavor with extra feta or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
