Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, refreshing dish that bursts with Mediterranean sunshine in every bite, this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together perfectly cooked pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy Kalamata olives, and rich feta cheese, all tied together by a zesty homemade dressing. The combination of textures, colors, and bright, herby flavors makes it an ideal salad for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a quick nourishing meal that feels special. Trust me, once you try this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe, it will become your go-to for effortless yet impressive dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the delicious and balanced flavor of the salad. From the creamy feta to the punchy red wine vinegar dressing, every item adds either texture, color, or freshness, making this dish truly exceptional.

• 2 cups cooked pasta: Use a sturdy shape like rotini or penne to hold the dressing well and provide a satisfying bite.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant red color to brighten the salad.
• 1 cup cucumber, diced: Brings a refreshing crunch and coolness that balances the bold flavors.
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a sharpness that adds depth and a bit of bite.
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: Delivers salty, briny flavor that’s signature to Greek cuisine.
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and tangy, this cheese is the heart of the salad’s flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: The base for the dressing, it adds richness and smoothness.
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides acidity that brightens and balances the olive oil perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Infuses the dressing with classic Mediterranean herbal notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy warmth to finish it off.

How to Make Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, which will prevent it from becoming mushy later.

Step 2: Prep the Fresh Vegetables

While your pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl. These bright little jewels are going to add bursts of juicy sweetness that elevate every forkful.

Step 3: Add Cucumber for Crunch

Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the tomatoes. The cucumber’s crisp texture will contrast beautifully with the softness of the pasta and creaminess of the feta.

Step 4: Thinly Slice the Red Onion

Adding thin slices of red onion gives the salad just the right amount of sharpness. If you find raw onion too strong, soaking the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding can mellow their bite.

Step 5: Incorporate Kalamata Olives

Slice the pitted Kalamata olives and add them to the bowl. Their salty, tangy flavor is a signature of Greek salads and works perfectly with the other fresh ingredients.

Step 6: Crumble in the Feta Cheese

Sprinkle crumbled feta over the salad. The cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy flavor that complements the salty olives and fresh veggies beautifully.

Step 7: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This simple dressing ties all the flavors together with a perfect balance of richness and acidity.

Step 8: Toss the Salad with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly. This step ensures every bite will be flavorful and well-seasoned.

Step 9: Add the Cooled Pasta

Gently fold the cooled pasta into the bowl with the vegetables and dressing. Mixing carefully helps maintain the salad’s texture while distributing all those beautiful flavors.

Step 10: Adjust Seasoning

Give the salad a taste and add extra salt or pepper if needed. This final tweak ensures that the salad’s flavors are perfectly balanced to your liking.

Step 11: Chill and Marinate

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest time lets the flavors meld together and intensify, making the salad even tastier.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, serve your Greek Pasta Salad Recipe either cold or at room temperature. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and a guaranteed hit anytime it hits the table.

How to Serve Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Consider adding freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top right before serving. These garnishes add extra color, texture, and a touch of vibrant freshness that enhances the dish’s presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This Greek Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seafood, or even simple pita bread. It’s versatile enough to be either a main course or a side, making it perfect for casual family dinners or festive outdoor barbecues.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or tomatoes. Alternatively, layering it in a clear glass bowl showcases the colorful ingredients and can make for an impressive centerpiece at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they mingle, but it’s best to enjoy it fresh for optimum texture and brightness.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the fresh vegetables and feta cheese can lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer, you can let it sit out for a while to take the chill off before serving, especially if refrigerated overnight.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Greek Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While rotini, penne, or fusilli work great due to their shape holding onto the dressing, feel free to use any pasta you like or have on hand. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente to avoid mushiness.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Greek Pasta Salad Recipe is perfect for meal prepping because it keeps well in the fridge for a few days and the flavors deepen over time. Just be sure to keep it chilled until serving.

Can I substitute the red wine vinegar with something else?

If you don’t have red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice are good substitutes that will maintain the salad’s bright, tangy flavor.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative or some marinated tofu cubes. The salad will still be delicious and full of flavor.

What’s the best way to keep the salad from getting soggy?

Rinsing the pasta under cold water after cooking helps stop it from overcooking and becoming mushy. Also, preparing the salad shortly before serving or keeping it chilled ensures the vegetables stay crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll come back to again and again. Its perfect balance of fresh veggies, bold olives, creamy feta, and zesty dressing makes every bite a little celebration of Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re packing it for lunch, bringing it to a party, or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal at home, this salad is sure to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try today and enjoy the wonderful tastes and colors that only this recipe can bring to your table.

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