Mediterranean Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family dinner. With its zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette, this salad is not only refreshing but also easy to whip up in no time. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main course, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can have this Mediterranean Pasta Salad ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of kalamata olives, feta cheese, and fresh veggies creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish or light meal, it’s suitable for any occasion—be it a barbecue or a lunch at home.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go option throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this Mediterranean Pasta Salad, gather your tools. Having the right kitchen equipment will ensure that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly until it’s perfectly al dente.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly while ensuring no pieces are left behind.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the vinaigrette smoothly so that every bite bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 ounces dry pasta (I used farfalle)
• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 2/3 cup sliced kalamata olives
• 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• half of a medium red onion, peeled and thinly sliced

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey (or your desired sweetener)
• 2 small garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain it using a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, prepare your vegetables. Dice the cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice half of the red onion.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, honey, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with diced cucumber, halved tomatoes, sliced olives, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced red onion. Pour the vinaigrette over everything.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is well-coated with the dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Serving Mediterranean Pasta Salad can elevate any meal or gathering. This vibrant dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch option. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will impress your guests.

As a Main Course

• A hearty serving of Mediterranean Pasta Salad can stand alone as a main dish. It’s filling yet refreshing, making it ideal for summer meals.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish. The zesty flavors complement the smoky taste of grilled meats beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Serve it alongside your favorite roasted vegetables or grilled meats. This pasta salad adds color and flavor to any plate.

In a Wrap

• Use Mediterranean Pasta Salad as a filling for wraps. Spread some hummus on a tortilla, add the salad, and roll it up for a delicious on-the-go meal.

At Potlucks and Gatherings

• Bring this dish to potlucks or gatherings. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it an appealing option that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Pasta Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like farfalle or penne that hold onto the dressing well.
• Fresh Ingredients Are Key: Use fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes for the best flavor and crunch.
• Don’t Skip the Dressing: A zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette enhances every ingredient in the salad; be generous with it!
• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together.
• Add Variety: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like bell peppers or artichokes for added texture.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your salad before serving; adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with Mediterranean Pasta Salad can create a delightful spread. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful salad well.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus enhance your meal’s freshness.
2. Hummus Platter: Serve with pita bread and assorted veggies for dipping; it’s a perfect way to start your meal.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, providing a satisfying contrast to the pasta’s texture.
4. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a fresh bite that pairs nicely with the pasta salad.
5. Stuffed Grape Leaves: Also known as dolmas, they add an authentic touch to your Mediterranean-themed meal.
6. Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas are not only healthy but also provide an extra protein boost alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Mediterranean Pasta Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is perfect every time.

• Using the wrong pasta type: Selecting a pasta that doesn’t hold the dressing well can lead to a bland salad. Opt for short shapes like farfalle or rotini that catch the ingredients and vinaigrette nicely.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions closely and test for doneness a minute before the suggested time.

• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your salad properly can dull the flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to your personal preference.

• Skipping the chill time: Serving immediately after preparing may not allow the flavors to meld. Allow your Mediterranean Pasta Salad to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Relying solely on pre-packaged items can lessen the freshness of your dish. Choose fresh vegetables, herbs, and quality olive oil for an enhanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in the coldest part of your fridge for best preservation.

Freezing Mediterranean Pasta Salad

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Consider freezing without the dressing; add it when ready to serve.

Reheating Mediterranean Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium heat; reheat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mediterranean Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What can I add to my Mediterranean Pasta Salad?

You can customize your Mediterranean Pasta Salad by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or various vegetables like bell peppers or artichokes.

How do I make a vegan version of Mediterranean Pasta Salad?

To create a vegan version, simply omit feta cheese or substitute it with tofu feta or avocado for creaminess while keeping all other ingredients intact.

How long does Mediterranean Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, this salad lasts up to three days.

What dressing works best with Mediterranean Pasta Salad?

A lemon-herb vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this salad. You can also experiment with balsamic vinegar or tahini-based dressings if you prefer something different.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Its zesty flavor profile makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or proteins to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful recipe!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mediterranean Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that beautifully combines the flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family meal, this salad features al dente pasta tossed with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese. Drizzled with a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette, it’s not just delicious but also quick to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes! Whether served as a side or a light main course, this pasta salad is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces dry pasta (farfalle recommended)
• 1 English cucumber (diced)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 2/3 cup kalamata olives (sliced)
• 4 ounces feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1 medium red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano, minced
• 1 teaspoon honey (or your desired sweetener)
• 2 small garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. While the pasta cools, prepare the vegetables by dicing the cucumber, halving the tomatoes, and slicing the red onion.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, honey, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and red onion. Pour vinaigrette over and toss gently.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg