Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad

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

Highlighted under: Ready in Minutes

I love preparing this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad on warm days when I want something light and refreshing. The combination of flavors from the veggies, olives, and feta cheese creates a delightful dish that's not only colorful but incredibly satisfying. It's quick to whip up and perfect for picnics or as a side to any meal. Plus, it holds up well when made in advance, making it a go-to recipe for my busy weeknights.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:25:35.947Z

I remember the first time I made this Mediterranean pasta salad; it was a last-minute decision for a family barbecue. I had leftover pasta and a variety of fresh ingredients, and I thought, why not? The result was a vibrant salad that everyone raved about. I learned that letting the salad sit for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully, which is a crucial tip I now always follow.

This dish has become a staple for me because it’s versatile! You can substitute ingredients based on what's in your fridge, whether it's adding grilled chicken for protein or using quinoa for a gluten-free option. It’s all about making it your own while enjoying that refreshing Mediterranean flair.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and tangy flavors bursting in every bite
Loaded with nutritious veggies and healthy fats
Perfect as a main dish or a side for any occasion

Preparing the Perfect Pasta

Cooking the pasta is a crucial first step in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad. You want to boil the pasta in salted water, ensuring the flavors penetrate the noodles. Remember to check the pasta frequently as it cooks; it should be just al dente, typically taking around 8-10 minutes depending on the brand. Overcooking can lead to a mushy salad, so opt for a slightly firmer texture since it will continue to soften slightly after being mixed with cold ingredients.

After draining the pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential for keeping the pasta firm and preventing stickiness. When you're rinsing, give the pasta a gentle shake or stir to help remove excess starch. This ensures that every bite of your salad is light and fresh, rather than gummy.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Freshness is key in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad. The vibrant cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumber not only bring color but also vital nutrients and natural sweetness. Opt for ripe, in-season tomatoes to achieve the best flavor. If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, diced plum tomatoes or grape varieties can serve as great substitutes, but try to avoid overly watery varieties as they can dilute the salad.

Using Kalamata olives provides a bold, briny flavor that complements the other salad ingredients. If you're sensitive to salt, you can soak them in water for an hour before using, which helps to reduce their sodium content. Additionally, crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and tangy taste; if you prefer a dairy-free option, consider using a vegan feta substitute or avocado for creaminess.

Making Ahead and Serving Suggestions

This salad improves in flavor after marinating, so consider making it a few hours or even the day before serving. Assemble the salad and toss it with the dressing, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. This not only saves time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

For an added twist, you might consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, transforming this side dish into a full meal. Alternatively, you can serve it in colorful lettuce cups for a fun presentation at gatherings. Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water for a delightful summer meal experience.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of 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 cooking.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, feta, red onion, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Everything

Add the cooled pasta to the salad mixture. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Serve

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating diced avocado or adding in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein. This salad also tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the dressing over time, which can actually enhance the flavor, but the salad may require a light drizzle of olive oil before serving if it seems dry.

If you need to keep the salad longer, it’s best to store the dressing separately. This prevents the vegetables from becoming soggy and the pasta from overcooking in the residual moisture. Mix the dressing in just before serving for the best textural results.

Dietary Swaps

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is incredibly adaptable to various dietary preferences. For gluten-free options, swap the pasta with gluten-free varieties made from rice or quinoa. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still deliver great flavor and satisfaction.

Vegans can replace feta cheese with a tofu-based feta or nutritional yeast, which offers a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, you can amp up the protein content with chickpeas or white beans, making it a hearty, nutritious meal suitable for everyone.

Flavor Variations

Consider adding capers or artichoke hearts for an extra flavor punch. These ingredients can bring brininess that complements the olives while introducing new textures. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten the dish, giving it an extra layer of freshness.

For those who enjoy heat, adding sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes can provide a spicy kick. Play around with herbs, too; fresh dill or mint can add an aromatic twist that contrasts with the other ingredients beautifully. Don't hesitate to experiment to make this salad suit your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after chilling in the fridge for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together.

→ Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap traditional pasta for gluten-free pasta.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer, you can use goat cheese or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would all be delicious additions to boost the protein content.