Mediterranean Pasta Salad
A fresh, colorful, and flavorful Mediterranean Pasta Salad loaded with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, olives, and a homemade lemon-herb dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, meal prep, or as a light lunch or side dish.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini, fusilli, or penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Salad
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¾ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ½ cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
For the Mediterranean Dressing
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain well and let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, combine:
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Red wine vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Basil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Crushed red pepper flakes (if using)
- Whisk or shake until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked pasta
- Tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Bell pepper
- Red onion
- Chickpeas
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese
- Parsley
- Basil
- Dill
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
Toss again before serving. Garnish with extra feta, fresh herbs, and a few olives if desired.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 12% DV
- Potassium: 340 mg
Nut Information
Contains Peanuts: No
Contains Tree Nuts: No
This recipe is naturally free of peanuts and tree nuts.
Cross-Contamination Information
If serving someone with a nut allergy:
- Check feta cheese, Dijon mustard, chickpeas, and packaged pasta for allergen labeling.
- Ensure all ingredients are processed in nut-free facilities if required.
- Use clean utensils, bowls, and cutting boards to prevent cross-contact with nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&S)
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. It tastes even better after chilling for several hours and can be made up to 24 hours in advance.
Q2: Which pasta works best?
Rotini, fusilli, penne, bow ties, or cavatappi all hold the dressing well.
Q3: Can I add grilled chicken?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or salmon make this a complete meal.
Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. This recipe is already vegetarian.
Q5: Can I make it vegan?
Yes. Omit the feta cheese or replace it with your favorite dairy-free feta alternative, and ensure the Dijon mustard is vegan.
Q6: How long will it keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Q7: Can I freeze it?
No. Freezing is not recommended because the vegetables and cheese lose their texture after thawing.
Q8: What other vegetables can I add?
Try artichoke hearts, spinach, roasted zucchini, roasted eggplant, sun-dried tomatoes, or diced avocado (add avocado just before serving).
Q9: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and verify that all other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
Q10: What can I serve with Mediterranean Pasta Salad?
It pairs well with:
- Grilled chicken
- Lemon garlic shrimp
- Grilled salmon
- Beef or lamb kebabs
- Falafel
- Hummus and pita
- Greek-style roasted vegetables
- Fresh fruit or a simple green salad
