Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Name: Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Traditions

I absolutely love whipping up this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad when I need a bright, fresh dish that packs a punch of flavor. With a blend of vibrant vegetables and tangy feta cheese, it effortlessly combines textures and tastes that bring the Mediterranean right to my kitchen. Perfect for a light lunch or a side item at a gathering, this salad can be customized with your favorite ingredients, ensuring it always suits my guests' preferences!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:28:16.226Z

When I first experimented with this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad, I wanted to create a dish that balanced lightness with satisfying flavors. The combination of fresh veggies, olives, and a zesty dressing turned out to be a hit! I particularly love how the pasta absorbs the dressing, enhancing every bite with a burst of flavor.

One tip I've learned is to allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This not only melds the flavors beautifully but also lets the ingredients retain their crunch, making each mouthful utterly refreshing. It's become a staple for warm days and gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Perfect as a light meal or a side dish

Ingredient Insights

When selecting ingredients for this Mediterranean Pasta Salad, go for high-quality feta cheese. The creaminess of the feta contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables, enhancing the overall texture. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat feta or even crumbled goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Don’t forget to taste a small piece before adding, as the saltiness can vary between brands, affecting your salad's taste.

The choice of pasta is also crucial; penne and fusilli are excellent options due to their ridged surfaces that catch the dressing and small ingredients. If you're aspiring for a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini for a fresh twist. Just remember that cooking times may vary with alternative pasta types, so keep an eye on them to ensure they remain al dente.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta salad is an excellent make-ahead dish. I usually prepare it a few hours before serving or even the night before, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it covered in the refrigerator. If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve; this will prevent the pasta from absorbing too much of the liquid and ensure it remains perfectly textured.

If you find that the salad becomes a bit dry after sitting, simply add a splash of olive oil or a bit more lemon juice just before serving. This revitalizes the dish without compromising the delicious flavor you've built into the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad as a vibrant side at barbecues or picnics, or turn it into a main dish by pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens for an elegant presentation, which adds extra nutrition and a nice crunch.

For a variation, consider adding grilled vegetables or roasted red peppers, which bring an additional layer of flavor and encourage seasonal creativity. I love incorporating pantry staples like artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes if I have them on hand for an extra Mediterranean kick!

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad!

Instructions

Cook Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare Ingredients

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Slice the Kalamata olives and crumble the feta cheese.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and dressing. Toss everything together until well coated.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!

This salad is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas to the salad. You can also substitute the feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your pasta salad watery after chilling, it may be due to overcooking the pasta or not draining it thoroughly. To fix this, drain the pasta for a few extra minutes and even pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel before mixing it with the other ingredients. This helps absorb any excess moisture and keeps the salad light and enjoyable.

Another common issue is flavor imbalance. If the salad tastes flat, simply add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice. Acid and salt elevate the flavors, and tiny adjustments can transform your dish phenomenally.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this salad up is straightforward—just maintain the same ingredient ratios. For larger gatherings, doubling the recipe works like a charm. Keep in mind to use a larger bowl for mixing, as ensuring even distribution of the dressing and ingredients is vital for consistent flavor.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, dividing the recipe can be an easy way to keep the dish fresh. Simply store any extra salad components separately, and toss them together for a quick meal. This ensures your ingredients remain crisp and vibrant!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any shape of pasta works well in this recipe, so feel free to use your favorite.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep! Just make sure to add the dressing right before serving.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can add bell peppers, artichokes, or even grilled eggplant for extra flavor and variety.