If you’re craving a refreshing, zesty dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a potluck, Greek Pasta Salad is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Loaded with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing, this salad strikes the perfect balance between taste and health.
Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this dish is simple, quick, and delivers authentic Greek flavors in every bite.
By the end of this post, you’ll have an easy-to-follow recipe as well as tips to customize and store your Greek Pasta Salad for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Greek Pasta Salad
Greek Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a versatile dish that fits almost any occasion. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth making today:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, paired with heart-healthy olive oil.
- Bursting with Mediterranean Flavors: Olives, feta cheese, oregano, and tangy dressing bring the iconic flavors of Greek cuisine to your plate.
- Customizable: It’s easy to adjust to various dietary preferences like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal-prep or potlucks since it stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, make sure to gather these key ingredients. Serves 4–6.
- For the Salad:
- 8 oz (2 cups) of short pasta (penne, fusilli, or bow tie work best)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe for Greek Pasta Salad
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot with a pinch of salt. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
2. Prep Your Vegetables
While your pasta is cooking, prep the vegetables. Slice your cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Make sure everything is bite-sized for easy eating.
3. Make the Dressing
Whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. This zesty, tangy dressing is what brings all the flavors together.
4. Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, prepped vegetables, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together to ensure even coating.
5. Chill and Serve
Greek Pasta Salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve cold and garnish with fresh oregano or parsley if desired.
Customization Options
Greek Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own:
- Make it Gluten-Free:
Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or substitute with cooked quinoa for a lighter option.
- Make it Vegan:
Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Add Protein:
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein-packed version.
- Switch Up the Veggies:
Feel free to add or swap your favorite vegetables like spinach, artichokes, or roasted zucchini.
Tips for the Best Greek Pasta Salad
- Rinse the Pasta:
Rinsing the pasta in cold water helps cool it down instantly and removes excess starch, ensuring your salad isn’t sticky.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil:
Since the dressing has minimal ingredients, a good-quality olive oil will elevate the entire dish.
- Avoid Overdressing:
Add the dressing gradually to avoid sogginess. You can always add more later.
- Prep Ahead:
Greek Pasta Salad stores wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
The Perfect Pairing for Greek Pasta Salad
This salad is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes, such as:
- Grilled lamb or chicken skewers
- Fresh pita bread and hummus
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Wrap Up & Enjoy
Greek Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of simplicity, health, and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re preparing meals for the week, hosting a summer BBQ, or looking for a quick dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe has you covered.
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