Greek Pasta Salad Recipe – Easy & Fresh

Greek Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish, perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, and potlucks. Combining the best of Mediterranean flavors, this dish features fresh, crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta, all tossed in a light, tangy vinaigrette. With the addition of pasta, this salad transforms into a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and filling. If you’re looking for an easy, vibrant dish to brighten up any occasion, this Greek pasta salad is sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Pasta Salad

This Greek Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and sweet bell peppers pair wonderfully with the salty Kalamata olives and rich feta cheese. The dressing—made from red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs—adds just the right amount of zing. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone meal or a side dish to accompany grilled meats, this recipe will never disappoint.

Ingredients for Greek Pasta Salad

For the salad:

• Pasta: Fusilli or rotini works best, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
• Red and Green Bell Peppers: Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Red Onion: A milder onion variety perfect for salads.
• Kalamata Olives: A staple in Greek salads, providing that briny, savory bite.
• Mini Cucumbers: These offer a refreshing crunch; English cucumbers also work well.
• Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they complement the other ingredients beautifully.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled or cubed, this creamy cheese adds richness and flavor.

For the dressing:

• Red Wine Vinegar: The tangy base of the dressing.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and smoothness.
• Dijon Mustard: A touch of mustard gives the vinaigrette depth without overpowering the flavors.
• Garlic: Adds a savory, aromatic quality.
• Fresh Parsley & Dried Oregano: Essential Mediterranean herbs that enhance the flavor.
• Brown Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• If you don’t have Kalamata olives, you can use black olives or green olives for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegetarian option with more protein, consider adding chickpeas or grilled chicken.
• You can swap the fusilli for gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek Pasta Salad

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the red and green bell peppers, red onion, cucumbers, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, fresh parsley, oregano, and brown sugar. Shake or whisk well to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, Kalamata olives, and feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine. Ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Season and Chill: Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If desired, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Greek Pasta Salad

• Make Ahead: This Greek pasta salad can be made ahead of time. Just be sure to store the dressing separately if preparing the salad a day in advance. Add the dressing right before serving for the freshest taste.
• Adjusting the Dressing: If you prefer a more tangy dressing, you can add an extra tablespoon of red wine vinegar. For a creamier vinaigrette, incorporate a little bit of Greek yogurt.
• Avoiding Mushy Veggies: To keep the vegetables crisp, avoid over-chopping them or letting the salad sit for too long in the dressing before serving.
• Freshness Is Key: Always use fresh ingredients, especially for the cucumbers and tomatoes, to ensure a vibrant and refreshing taste.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Greek pasta salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some pairing suggestions:

• Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or pork for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
• Toppings and Sauces: Top the salad with additional feta or olives. For extra flavor, try adding a drizzle of creamy tzatziki sauce.
• Make It a Full Meal: Turn this salad into a more substantial meal by adding protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

For those who prefer variations:

• Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free feta substitute and make sure the dressing is plant-based.

Greek Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish

This Greek pasta salad is the ideal dish to bring to any summer event. With its bright colors, fresh flavors, and Mediterranean charm, it’s a guaranteed hit. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish for a BBQ, or a refreshing addition to a potluck, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for any gathering. It’s simple, easy to prepare, and best of all, bursting with flavor!

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover Greek pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days, but note that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing over time. If you’re storing it for longer, consider keeping the feta and dressing separate, and adding them just before serving.

This Greek pasta salad recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its vibrant ingredients and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Greek Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion—whether it’s a casual lunch, a BBQ, or a potluck. With its fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and Mediterranean flavors, this salad is both light and hearty, making it a satisfying option that everyone will love. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with the tangy vinaigrette and briny olives, creates a balanced dish that feels both indulgent and healthy. You can easily customize it with extra protein or different vegetables, making it adaptable for any dietary need or flavor preference. Serve this dish chilled for the ultimate refreshing summer meal!

FAQ About Greek Pasta Salad

More Relevant Recipes

• Mediterranean Bowl
• Vegetable Pasta Salad

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