When you’re craving a light yet satisfying dish that’s packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, a Greek pasta salad recipe is the perfect solution. This colorful salad combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and a zesty homemade Greek dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a summer barbecue, or just need a quick weekday lunch, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead and travels well. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, variations, storage ideas, and answers to common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
There are plenty of pasta salad recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few reasons:
- Burst of Flavor: The combination of olives, feta, cucumbers, and a lemony vinaigrette makes every bite bright and tangy.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta salad actually tastes better after a few hours when the flavors have had time to mingle.
- Customizable: You can easily add more protein, swap veggies, or use gluten-free pasta to suit your preferences.
- Great for Any Occasion: Serve it at picnics, potlucks, BBQs, or as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this Greek pasta salad recipe from scratch:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz pasta – Rotini, penne, or bow-tie pasta works best because the dressing clings to the grooves.
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ½ cups cucumber, diced (English cucumber is preferred for its thin skin)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Greek Dressing:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate Greek pasta salad recipe:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Prepare the Veggies
Chop the cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, and parsley. Slice the red onion thinly for a mild bite.
4. Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, and crumbled feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is well coated.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together for the best taste.
Expert Tips for the Best Greek Pasta Salad
- Rinse the pasta after cooking – This stops it from overcooking and keeps it from sticking together.
- Use good quality olive oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Let it chill – Greek pasta salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Keep feta chunky – Crumble the feta just enough so you get big, creamy bites in every forkful.
- Balance the acidity – Taste the dressing before mixing. Add more lemon juice or vinegar if you want extra tang.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about this Greek pasta salad recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some tasty variations:
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make it a heartier main dish.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a creamy twist.
- Swap the Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta, quinoa, or even orzo for a different texture.
- Extra Veggies: Add artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
- Vegan Option: Skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
What to Serve with Greek Pasta Salad
This pasta salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled meats like chicken souvlaki or lamb kebabs
- Pita bread and hummus
- Falafel wraps
- Fresh fruit or a light dessert like baklava
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Meal Prep: Make the salad up to 24 hours in advance, but reserve a little dressing to refresh just before serving.
- Avoid Freezing: Pasta salads don’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and dressing.
Common Questions
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta. Be sure to rinse it well after cooking to prevent gumminess.
Can I Use Store-Bought Dressing?
You can, but homemade dressing gives you fresher, more authentic flavor with simple ingredients.
How Long Can This Pasta Salad Sit Out?
For food safety, don’t let it sit out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if it’s very hot outside).
Final Thoughts
This Greek pasta salad recipe is the perfect combination of freshness, tang, and heartiness. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make on repeat — especially during warm weather months. It’s simple enough for a quick lunch but impressive enough for entertaining guests.
Give this recipe a try, experiment with the variations, and enjoy a delicious taste of the Mediterranean right at home.