Greek Pasta Salad

Name: Greek Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta; 1 cup diced cucumbers; 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes; 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/3 cup pitted Kalamata olives; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: December 29, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Greek Pasta Salad

This incredible Greek Pasta Salad transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Greek Pasta Salad:

Pasta: Choose your favorite type; rotini or penne work wonderfully due to their ability to hold dressing and toppings.
Cucumbers: Fresh and crisp cucumbers are essential; they add crunch and freshness that balance the flavors beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, cherry tomatoes provide bursts of flavor; opt for vibrant red ones to amp up the visual appeal.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a mild yet zesty kick that’s essential to the salad’s overall flavor profile.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tang; look for high-quality cheese for the best taste.
Olives: Kalamata olives bring a briny depth; pit them if needed before adding them to your salad.

For the Dressing:

Olive Oil: A good extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors; it’s Mediterranean magic in liquid form!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens everything up; skip bottled juice if you can—it makes a difference!
Dried Oregano: Adds a classic Greek flavor; make sure it’s fresh to maximize its aromatic qualities.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Greek Pasta Salad:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about eight minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, chop your cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well until emulsified—this is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Drain and Cool the Pasta

Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water until cool—no one likes warm pasta in their salad!

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Add cooled pasta to the bowl with vegetables. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Don’t be shy—get those flavors mingling!

Step 6: Add Feta and Olives

Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives on top. Give it one last gentle toss before serving—it’s time for everyone to dig in!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining dressing for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! Your mouthwatering Greek Pasta Salad is ready to impress at any gathering or simply as an indulgent treat just for you! Enjoy every last bite knowing you’ve created something both beautiful and delicious!

You Must Know About Greek Pasta Salad

This showstopping Greek Pasta Salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Greek Pasta Salad, cook the pasta al dente while prepping your veggies and dressing. Combine everything in a large bowl, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. This sequence ensures fresh ingredients shine without losing their crunch.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Greek Pasta Salad! Swap traditional feta for goat cheese or try adding grilled chicken for protein. You can also toss in olives, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor punch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For optimal taste, serve cold straight from the fridge—no reheating required! If needed, add a splash of olive oil before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Greek Pasta Salad

This professional-quality Greek Pasta Salad relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

When I first made this Greek Pasta Salad for a family gathering, my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Let’s just say that compliment made my day—and made me rethink my pasta salad game forever!

FAQs

What is Greek Pasta Salad?

Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish that combines pasta with vibrant vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for summer picnics or as a light meal. The flavors of the Mediterranean come together beautifully, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice. You can customize it by adding ingredients like chickpeas, cucumbers, or even grilled chicken to suit your taste preferences. Overall, Greek Pasta Salad offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table.

How do I make Greek Pasta Salad?

To prepare Greek Pasta Salad, start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente. While the pasta cools, chop vegetables such as bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes. Toss these with olives and crumbled feta cheese in a bowl. For the dressing, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Combine everything once the pasta cools down and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This process enhances the flavors and allows you to enjoy a delicious salad that’s great for any occasion.

What can I substitute in Greek Pasta Salad?

If you’re looking to modify your Greek Pasta Salad, there are plenty of substitutes available. You can replace traditional pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options if necessary. For added protein, consider chickpeas or grilled chicken instead of feta cheese or olives if you prefer a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also enhance the dish’s taste. Additionally, swap out cucumbers for zucchini or add artichokes for an exciting twist on this classic salad while still keeping it fresh and delicious.

Can I make Greek Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making Greek Pasta Salad ahead of time is not only convenient but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Prepare the salad and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve; this will prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad again, simply drizzle with dressing and give it a good toss before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Conclusion

In summary, Greek Pasta Salad is a versatile dish ideal for various occasions. Its combination of fresh vegetables, pasta, olives, and feta creates a delightful balance of flavors that everyone loves. You can easily customize this recipe by incorporating different ingredients according to your preferences while still enjoying its core essence. Whether it’s for a picnic or just a light dinner at home, Greek Pasta Salad remains a popular choice that everyone can appreciate. So gather your ingredients and prepare this delicious dish today!

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