Greek Pasta Salad

Greek pasta salad became a favorite in my kitchen after a spontaneous picnic plan left me needing a dish that was both travel-friendly and crowd-pleasing and I had leftover pasta and a handful of Mediterranean staples so I tossed them together and hoped for the best. That first bite was all it took and ever since then it’s been my go-to when I want something hearty and refreshing at the same time.

It’s one of those recipes that feels like a complete meal even when you didn’t plan much ahead and because it holds up so well it’s perfect for picnics potlucks and even quick weekday lunches. With pasta and crisp cucumbers and briny olives and creamy feta and every forkful gives a little burst of flavor and color that just feels like sunshine in a bowl.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Rotini pasta – The twisty shape holds onto dressing and toppings beautifully.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and sweet and they add a bright pop of color.
• Cucumber – Crisp and cooling and perfect for fresh contrast.
• Red onion – Brings a sharp edge to balance the creaminess.
• Kalamata olives – Rich and briny for that unmistakable Greek flavor.
• Feta cheese – Creamy and salty and the perfect finishing touch.
• Fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a lovely herbal note.
• Olive oil – Creates a smooth base for the simple dressing.
• Lemon juice – Brightens everything and ties the flavors together.
• Dried oregano – A traditional Greek herb that adds depth and authenticity.
• Black pepper – Enhances all the flavors with just a little heat.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Large pot – To boil the pasta until it’s perfectly al dente.
• Colander – For draining the cooked pasta efficiently.
• Cutting board – Great for prepping all your fresh veggies safely.
• Sharp knife – Makes clean cuts through cucumbers and tomatoes.
• Large bowl – Ideal for tossing everything together without spills.
• Salad tongs – Helps to gently mix the pasta with the other ingredients.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

I start by boiling the pasta in salted water until al dente and once it’s cooked I drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking.

Step 2: Prep the vegetables

While the pasta cools I slice the cucumber and cherry tomatoes and red onion and I like to keep the slices thin so they blend nicely into every bite.

Step 3: Make the dressing

In a small bowl I whisk together olive oil and lemon juice and dried oregano and a pinch of black pepper and I keep it simple because the fresh ingredients do the rest of the work.

Step 4: Combine and toss

Once the pasta is completely cool I place it in a large mixing bowl and then I add the chopped veggies and olives and toss everything gently to combine.

Step 5: Finish with feta and parsley

To finish I crumble the feta over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley and I give it one last gentle toss and it’s ready to serve!

Tips

If you want to make it more filling I sometimes add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a full meal. I also like to make it a few hours ahead and let it chill in the fridge so the flavors can really come together and taste even better.

Ways to Serve

Serve it cold at BBQs or potlucks as a refreshing pasta option.

Enjoy as a main dish for lunch with pita and hummus on the side.

Pack it for a picnic with fruit and sparkling water.

Add to a Mediterranean spread with dips and warm bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Greek pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes and I actually prefer it that way because the flavors develop more after a few hours in the fridge.

What kind of pasta is best for Greek pasta salad?

I like rotini because it holds onto dressing well but penne or bowties work great too.

Can I use a store-bought dressing instead?

Absolutely and just make sure it’s a light vinaigrette with Mediterranean flavors like lemon and herbs.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Greek pasta salad a try! It’s one of my favorites, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out. Feel free to leave a comment below or share your results with me! And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite salad or pasta board to keep it handy for future meals.

Happy Cooking!

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