This Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of pasta, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese. It’s dressed with a simple olive oil and lemon combo that brightens everything up!
Perfect for picnics or a light dinner, this salad is like a vacation in a bowl! I love how quick it comes together. Just toss it all, and you’re ready to enjoy—simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is great for holding onto the dressing and all those tasty bits! If you don’t have it, you can use penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you like.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If they’re out of season, try using halved grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumbers add crunch. If you want a twist, you could substitute with bell peppers or even diced zucchini.
Kalamata Olives: They provide a rich flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, black olives or green olives work well too.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings creaminess. For a dairy-free alternative, try using vegan feta or skip it entirely for a lighter version.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Isn’t Soggy?
To avoid a soggy pasta salad, be sure to rinse your cooked pasta with cold water after draining. This halts cooking and cools the pasta quickly, preventing it from absorbing too much dressing. Additionally, any added vegetables should be dry to keep water from seeping into the salad.
- Always cook the pasta al dente so it holds its texture.
- Use a fine mesh sieve to drain well.
- Mix the salad shortly before serving or store the dressing separately until you’re ready to eat.
Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (marinated or plain)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, plan for a total of around 45 minutes, which allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Combine the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and finely chopped red onion. This colorful mix will be the base of your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. This will add a delicious tangy flavor to bring the salad together.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss everything well to ensure that the pasta and veggies are evenly coated in that lovely dressing.
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh basil. Be careful not to break up the feta too much; it adds a nice creamy texture!
6. Season and Chill:
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with any additional salt and pepper if needed. Then, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and chill.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good toss once more. You can garnish with extra basil or feta if you’d like. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the refreshing taste of the Mediterranean!
This Mediterranean pasta salad is bright, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors, making it a perfect easy dish for summer or any occasion!
FAQ About Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta can make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mediterranean pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes a bit dry, feel free to add a splash of olive oil or a little more dressing when serving.
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can make this salad more filling and transform it into a complete meal. Just make sure any protein you add is cooked and cooled before mixing it in.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
You can easily customize this salad with other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just chop them up and toss them in with the other ingredients to brighten up the dish with even more colors and flavors!
