Description
This Greek Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. Featuring pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, and creamy feta, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or light summer dinners. Quick to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and easily customizable with proteins like chicken or shrimp, it’s a versatile and delicious option for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 ounces short pasta (fusilli, farfalle, or penne)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 red or yellow bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup pitted olives (black, green, or Kalamata)
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives to the bowl with the dressing.
- Toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Add Pasta & Feta:
- Mix in the cooled pasta and crumbled feta cheese.
- Toss until everything is well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve or Chill:
- Serve immediately, or for the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Leafy Greens: Toss in spinach or arugula for added freshness.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap feta with mozzarella balls or cubed Parmesan.
- Extra Herbs: Enhance flavor with parsley, basil, or dill.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: Tossing, No-Bake
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
