Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

Discover the ultimate Greek Pasta Salad Recipe, a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or as a light and healthy meal. Made with al dente pasta, crisp vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, and tossed in a zesty homemade Greek salad dressing, this recipe is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Topped with creamy feta cheese and briny Kalamata olives, this easy pasta salad combines taste and nutrition in every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish, a quick make-ahead meal, or a flavorful addition to your summer menu, this easy Greek pasta salad is guaranteed to impress. Packed with protein, veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (or rotini, fusilli, or any preferred pasta shape)
• ½ English cucumber, diced (about 2 cups)
• 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved (approximately 1 ½ cups)
• 1 bell pepper, any color, seeded and chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped (⅓ cup)
• 4 oz crumbled feta cheese (about 1 cup)
• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved or coarsely chopped, plus 1 Tbsp of juice from the jar (optional)
• ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped

For the Greek Salad Dressing:

• ⅓ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 3 garlic cloves, grated or minced
• 1 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ½ to ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil

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Instructions

To Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down.
3. Shake off excess water and set aside to drain completely.

To Make the Dressing:

1. In a large measuring cup or mason jar, combine all the dressing ingredients in the listed order.
2. Whisk well or shake in the jar until fully emulsified.

To Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, red onion, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and parsley.
2. If the dressing has separated, shake or whisk it again before pouring over the salad.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and add a spoonful of Kalamata olive juice for an extra flavor boost, if desired.
4. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated.

To Chill and Serve:

1. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Before serving, taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed, as the pasta may absorb some of the dressing during refrigeration.

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Tips

• For best results, cook the pasta to al dente so it holds its shape and texture in the salad.
• Rinse the pasta with cold water to cool it quickly and prevent overcooking.
• Use freshly grated garlic for a robust flavor in the dressing.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Swap feta cheese for goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free option.
• Use other vegetables like zucchini, artichoke hearts, or spinach for variety.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but add more dressing before serving if needed.

What pasta shape works best for this salad?
Bowtie, rotini, or fusilli pasta are excellent choices because they hold onto the dressing well.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
Make sure the pasta is well-drained and avoid over-dressing the salad initially. Add more dressing after refrigeration if required.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Greek pasta salad with grilled meats or seafood for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Serve as a standalone dish for picnics, potlucks, or BBQs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s vibrant, flavorful, and loaded with fresh vegetables.
• The tangy dressing pairs beautifully with the creamy feta and briny olives.
• Quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep, making it a go-to option for busy days or gatherings.