If you crave a burst of fresh flavors wrapped up in a colorful, hearty bowl, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what you need in your meal rotation. It’s a vibrant medley of garden-fresh vegetables, tangy feta, briny olives, and perfectly al dente pasta, all tossed in a zesty, homemade dressing that brings everything together in the most irresistible way. Whether you’re entertaining friends, packing lunch for a summery picnic, or just want a light yet satisfying dinner, this salad delivers on taste and texture with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is part of its charm. Each ingredient plays a crucial role from vibrant colors to bold flavors to satisfying textures that make this dish so wonderful.
- 12 oz rotini pasta: The spirals catch the dressing and veggies beautifully, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved): Adds juicy sweetness and a pop of vibrant red to brighten the salad.
- 1 cup cucumber (diced): Offers refreshing crunch and balances the tangy elements perfectly.
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives (pitted and sliced): Brings a salty, briny punch characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
- 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a mild, sharp bite that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 3/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled): Creamy, tangy, and salty, feta is fundamental to this salad’s authentic taste.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a fragrant herbaceous note and a lovely splash of green.
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: The heart of the dressing, it lends smooth richness and a peppery finish.
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar: Delivers acidity and brightness that balance the oil and cheese.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh citrusy zing that lifts every ingredient to a new level.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that infuses subtle earthiness into the dressing.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Provides a slight pungency and warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors without making the salad salty.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just a touch of mild heat to round things out.
How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente – tender but with a slight bite in the center. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together. Setting it aside to cool ensures a fresh and light texture in the final salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the pasta cools, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or jar. This dressing is where the magic begins, combining bright acidity, earthy herbs, and fragrant garlic to perfectly coat the salad ingredients and tie everything together.
Step 3: Mix the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, sliced kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Each element offers a different texture and flavor that creates a harmonious and exciting bite every time.
Step 4: Toss and Chill
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything thoroughly to ensure even coating. Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste and making this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe even more irresistible.
How to Serve Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of extra crumbled feta or a few whole kalamata olives on top add an inviting look and an extra boost of flavor just before serving. A couple of fresh basil leaves or a few lemon wedges on the side can also brighten up the presentation and provide options for guests to customize their bites.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seafood like shrimp or salmon, or even a warm pita bread to complete the meal. Serving it alongside a light soup or roasted vegetable platter can create a balanced, nutrient-packed spread ideal for casual dinners or festive gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant touch, serve the salad layered in clear glass bowls so the vibrant colors shine through, or present it on individual plates with a drizzle of extra dressing and a small sprinkle of herbs on top. For picnics or packed lunches, portion it into mason jars for an attractive and practical presentation that keeps everything fresh until mealtime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, although for best texture, try to consume it within this timeframe as the vegetables may soften over longer storage.
Freezing
This salad is not ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables and cheese can lose their texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated but never frozen to maintain the integrity of the vibrant ingredients.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Simply give it a gentle stir and serve chilled for the best taste and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal because it holds the dressing well, you can substitute penne, bowtie, or even shells based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Is this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe suitable for vegans?
This version includes feta cheese, which is not vegan. However, you can swap out feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or simply omit it to keep the salad vegan-friendly.
How long can the salad be made in advance?
This salad is best when made a few hours ahead and allowed to chill for at least 30 minutes. You can prepare it in the morning for a lunch later in the day or the night before to enhance the flavors.
Can I add protein to make this a more filling meal?
Yes! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are fantastic ways to boost the protein content and make the salad a wholesome main course.
What type of olives should I use?
Kalamata olives are recommended due to their rich, tangy flavor, but if you prefer a milder taste, green olives or other varieties can work well too.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe that keeps me coming back for more – the vibrant colors, the fresh ingredients, and that perfect balance of tangy, salty, and herbaceous flavors all in one bowl. It’s a simple dish with big personality, perfect for warming weather or any time you want a refreshing, satisfying meal. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it soon becomes one of your favorite go-to recipes too!
Print
Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Mediterranean pasta salad featuring rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Chill: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- You can substitute bowtie or penne pasta if preferred.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
