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: 8 oz (225g) rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Recipes

I absolutely love this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad! It's quick to whip up and bursting with vibrant flavors that remind me of sun-kissed shores. Whether I’m preparing a light lunch or a side dish for a family gathering, this salad never disappoints. The combination of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese tossed in a zesty dressing always leaves everyone asking for the recipe. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever greens or proteins I have on hand, making it an ideal choice for any meal.

Created by

Quincy Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:33:35.958Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean pasta salad, I knew I wanted fresh and bold flavors that would transport me to the Mediterranean coast with each bite. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that combining al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese encapsulated everything I loved about this region’s cuisine. The addition of a simple homemade lemon-olive oil dressing tied it all together beautifully.

One of my favorite tips is to let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the pasta to absorb the zesty dressing and enhances the flavors significantly. Whether I serve it warm or chilled, it’s always a hit at gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to make this salad your go-to recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful and fresh ingredients create a delightful experience for the taste buds.
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights and last-minute gatherings.
Loaded with wholesome ingredients, it’s a healthy option that still feels indulgent.

Ingredient Insights

The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and cucumbers not only enhance the visual appeal of your salad but also contribute a punch of freshness. Cherry tomatoes are sweet and juicy, providing a perfect balance to the salty feta and olives. Opt for ripe, firm tomatoes, as they are sweeter and easier to slice. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, diced Roma or even sun-dried tomatoes can be a delightful alternative, infusing deeper flavors into the dish.

Cucumbers add a refreshing crunch to the pasta salad. For the most flavorful experience, use English cucumbers, as they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. When dicing, aim for uniform pieces to ensure consistent texture in every bite. If you prefer a little zippiness, consider pickling the cucumbers for a few hours beforehand, but be mindful that this will change the flavor profile and texture slightly.

Dressing Dynamics

The dressing for this salad is simple yet pivotal in tying all the ingredients together. Using high-quality olive oil will impart a rich flavor and smooth texture. When whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice, aim for a balance between acidity and richness. If you want to make the dressing even creamier, consider adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a bit of tang and depth.

Tossing the dressing with the pasta while it is still slightly warm (but not hot) helps the flavors absorb better. Warm pasta can help to release the flavors of the vinaigrette, allowing the salad to taste more harmonious. If you're prepping ahead of time, store the dressing separately and combine it right before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

Serving and Storage Tips

To serve the Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad at its best, consider allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes after mixing. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. You can serve it on a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach, for added nutrition and presentation. Sprinkle some extra feta or a handful of toasted pine nuts on top for an impressive finish.

When it comes to storage, this pasta salad can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you notice the pasta has absorbed too much dressing over time, simply add a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice when you're ready to enjoy the leftovers again.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

8 oz (225g) rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Serve

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or artichokes.

Variations to Explore

One of the best qualities of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is its versatility. Incorporating proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can transform this dish into a heartier meal. If you're looking to keep it vegetarian, consider adding cannellini beans for a great protein boost. These ingredients can easily enhance the salad without compromising the Mediterranean essence.

For a twist on traditional flavors, try experimenting with seasonal vegetables. Roasted bell peppers or asparagus can introduce delightful smokiness while providing additional textures. Mixing in artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes can offer a tangy complexity, reproducing the Mediterranean experience even further. Just keep an eye on the balance between moisture and dry ingredients to maintain the salad's ideal consistency.

Flavor Enhancements and Tips

To take the flavor of this salad up a notch, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil. These herbs complement the existing ingredients well, contributing a fragrant aroma and vibrant taste. Chopping these finely and mixing them in at the end will ensure their freshness shines through every bite. Just a teaspoon of fresh herbs can significantly elevate the dish without overwhelming the original flavors.

If you're concerned about overcooking the pasta, a simple tip is to undercook it by one minute. The pasta will continue to absorb flavors and soften as it cools with the dressing and vegetables. Remember, the goal is to achieve an al dente texture that retains a slight bite, ensuring the pasta lives up to its role as the base of this vibrant salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Is there a gluten-free version?

Absolutely! You can substitute the rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta options.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can use crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are fantastic additions that can transform this salad into a full meal.