Greek Pasta Salad

This Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing, flavorful dish that combines all the classic Mediterranean ingredients you love—feta cheese, olives, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing. It’s an easy, make-ahead meal that’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a healthy lunch option. With bright colors and bold flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Resting Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 48 minutes

Servings: 6

Author: Siddhanath Metkari

Recipe Tools You Use:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs

Greek Pasta Salad Recipe Video:

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
2. 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3. 1 cucumber, diced
4. 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
5. 1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved
6. 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
7. 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced (optional)
8. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
9. 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing:

1. 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
4. 1 garlic clove, minced
5. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
6. Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water, and set it aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, prep your veggies. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, dice the red bell pepper (if using), and halve the kalamata olives. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Let the dressing sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

In the large mixing bowl with the veggies, add the cooled pasta and gently toss everything together. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to make sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Feta and Herbs

Fold in the crumbled feta cheese, and if you’re using fresh parsley and dill, add those as well. The fresh herbs give the salad an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more lemon juice or a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors.

Step 7: Serve or Chill

You can serve the salad right away at room temperature, but for best results, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors really come together. Give it a final toss before serving.

Tips:

• Make It a Meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn this side dish into a more filling main course.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add extra veggies like artichoke hearts, spinach, or roasted red peppers to make it your own.
• Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it great for meal prepping. Just store the dressing separately and toss it in right before serving to keep the pasta from getting soggy.
• Dairy-Free Option: Simply leave out the feta or replace it with a dairy-free alternative to make this salad vegan-friendly.

This Greek Pasta Salad is a fantastic, fresh dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal anytime.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

Health Benefits:

1. Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides beneficial monounsaturated fats, great for cardiovascular health.
2. Antioxidant-Rich: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives are loaded with antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.
3. Bone Health: Feta cheese is a solid source of calcium, which supports strong bones.
4. Hydration Boost: The high-water content in cucumbers and tomatoes helps keep you hydrated.
5. Digestive Support: Veggies and whole-grain pasta (if used) provide fiber, aiding in digestion.
6. Anti-Inflammatory: Olive oil and garlic are known for their natural anti-inflammatory benefits.
7. Protein Source: Feta cheese adds a satisfying amount of protein to keep you fuller longer.
8. Immune Support: Fresh herbs like parsley and dill are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help boost immunity.
9. Weight-Friendly: Low-calorie and nutrient-dense ingredients make this salad a great option for those watching their weight.
10. Blood Sugar Regulation: The low glycemic load helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigeration: Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Tip: Store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheating:

• No need to reheat; this Greek pasta salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Reuse Ideas:

• Add Protein: Mix in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it more filling.
• Wrap It Up: Use the salad as a filling in a whole wheat tortilla or pita with extra greens.
• Stuffed Veggies: Try stuffing bell peppers or tomatoes with the salad for a fun, fresh presentation.

This Greek Pasta Salad is not only packed with Mediterranean flavors but also easy to store and versatile, making it a perfect option for meal prepping or quick, healthy meals throughout the week. Enjoy its freshness for days.

FAQ’s

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