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: 2 cups cooked pasta (any shape you prefer); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup pitted olives, sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Plates

I absolutely love making this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad because it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that always impresses my family and friends. The bright veggies and tangy dressing not only make it visually appealing, but they also offer a refreshing taste that dances on the palate. I often prepare this salad when I want a quick yet satisfying dish for gatherings or picnics, and it never disappoints! Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:34:15.178Z

When I first made this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together, making it my go-to recipe for busy weeknights and casual get-togethers. I chose high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs to really elevate the flavors, and it made all the difference. The combination of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and creamy feta creates a symphony of taste that is simply irresistible.

Experimenting with ingredients is part of the fun! I’ve added grilled chicken for protein and even swapped out the pasta for quinoa when I’m feeling adventurous. Each time, the salad remains delicious and satisfying, proving its versatility. Don’t be afraid to play with it based on what you have in the fridge; it’s a dish you can truly make your own!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Vibrant flavors that awaken your taste buds
Versatile recipe that allows for personal touches
Perfect for meal prep and gatherings

Choosing the Right Pasta

The perfect pasta shape can elevate your Mediterranean Pasta Salad significantly. Opt for shapes like fusilli or farfalle, which hold onto the dressing and other ingredients well, ensuring each bite is flavorful. If you're using gluten-free pasta, be sure to rinse it thoroughly after cooking to avoid clumping as it cools. Remember to cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture; it should have a slight bite to it even when chilled.

When cooking pasta, ensure you use a large pot with plenty of water to prevent sticking and achieve even cooking. Add a generous pinch of salt to the boiling water before adding the pasta—this is crucial as it imparts flavor from the inside out. After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water immediately; this halts the cooking process and helps maintain the desired al dente texture.

Flavoring with Fresh Ingredients

In this salad, the role of fresh vegetables cannot be overstated. Cherry tomatoes provide a sweet pop of flavor, while cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. When selecting your veggies, look for vibrant colors and firm textures; limp or dull produce can lead to a less appealing salad. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, like artichokes or grilled zucchini, to further enhance the salad’s visual interest and flavor profile.

Feta cheese is a vital component for adding a creamy, savory element that balances the bright vegetables. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, consider using reduced-fat feta or substituting it with a crumbly goat cheese. Herbs like parsley not only enhance the salad's flavor but also add a burst of freshness and brightness. For a twist, you might even incorporate fresh basil or mint.

Dressing Tips and Variations

The dressing brings everything together in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad. Whisking the olive oil with red wine vinegar creates a tangy base that enhances the fresh ingredients. Aim to let the dressing sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to blend beautifully. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice for a zesty lift.

This recipe is designed to be flexible based on your taste. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. If you're preparing this salad for a large crowd or meal prep, you can easily double the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together as it sits, making it even more delicious over time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta (any shape you prefer)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup pitted olives, 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 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you can start making the salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down, then set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

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

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Toss

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables, then pour the dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until well coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!

Your Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. The flavor improves if the salad sits for a bit, so make it ahead of time if possible.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad is that it's perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the salad up to two days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld without losing the freshness of the ingredients. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to ensure even distribution of the dressing.

If you're worried about the veggies getting too soft, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. This way, you maintain their crispness and overall texture. For optimal flavor, I recommend adding a splash of extra olive oil or red wine vinegar right before serving to refresh the taste.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or fish, enhancing any barbecue or picnic spread. You can even serve it on a bed of greens, like arugula or spinach, to create a more substantial meal. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with slices of crusty bread and a glass of white wine, allowing the salad's vibrant flavors to shine.

If you're looking to turn it into a main dish, add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This not only increases its nutritional value but also keeps you fuller for longer. Offering a variety of toppings like nuts or seeds can add an exciting crunch and additional flavor to the overall dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta absorbs too much dressing after refrigeration, it may become dry. To fix this, simply add a little olive oil and toss to revive the dish before serving. It’s a good practice to check the seasoning as well—the salad ingredients may need a touch more salt or vinegar after sitting for a while.

Should you notice the vegetables have started to wilt, it may be due to an excessive amount of dressing. In this case, remove some of the dressing and add in more fresh ingredients to restore balance. Always taste and adjust as you go to keep the salad light and vibrant, reflecting the Mediterranean spirit.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.

→ What type of pasta works best?

You can use any pasta shape you like. I recommend using a shape that holds the dressing well, such as rotini or fusilli.

→ Can I customize the vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables or what you have on hand. Artichokes, spinach, or zucchini also work well.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta. There are many good options available at grocery stores.