Greek Pasta Salad

I first whipped up this Greek pasta salad for a last minute summer picnic when I had leftover pasta and some fresh veggies from the farmer’s market so I tossed everything together with a quick vinaigrette and feta cheese and it turned out so vibrant and refreshing that it disappeared within minutes. Since then it’s been a staple at every warm weather gathering or when I need a no-fuss side that feels both light and flavorful.

What I love most about this Greek pasta salad is how it combines the crispness of cucumbers and tomatoes with the salty bite of olives and feta so every bite feels like a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean. It’s bright, colorful, and delicious served cold—perfect for prepping ahead or bringing along to a potluck.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Rotini pasta – The perfect shape for catching all the dressing and chunky ingredients.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, they add beautiful color and freshness.
• Cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
• Red onion – Brings a sharp bite that complements the tangy vinaigrette.
• Kalamata olives – Salty and briny for that classic Greek flavor.
• Feta cheese – Crumbled on top for a creamy, tangy finish.
• Olive oil – The base of the dressing that binds everything together.
• Red wine vinegar – Adds zesty acidity to balance the richness.
• Garlic – Adds a punch of flavor to the vinaigrette.
• Dried oregano – Classic herb that ties everything together with a Mediterranean note.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – For boiling the pasta until perfectly al dente.
• Strainer – To drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool.
• Large bowl – For mixing the pasta with all the fresh ingredients.
• Cutting board and knife – To prep the veggies and chop the feta if needed.
• Whisk or small jar – For mixing or shaking the dressing ingredients together.
• Serving spoon – To toss and serve the salad with ease.

Instructions

Step 1:

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

Step 2:

While the pasta is cooking I slice the cherry tomatoes in half, cut the cucumber into rounds, thinly slice the red onion, and pit and halve the Kalamata olives if needed.

Step 3:

In a small bowl or jar I mix the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined into a tangy vinaigrette.

Step 4:

I add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl along with the chopped vegetables and olives then I pour the vinaigrette over the top and toss everything gently to coat.

Step 5:

I crumble feta cheese over the salad and give it one final toss before serving or chilling in the fridge for a few hours so the flavors can meld beautifully.

Tips

If you want extra protein, I sometimes add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a full meal. You can also swap in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra freshness or use a flavored feta to mix things up. This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunch meal prep too!

Ways to Serve

Greek pasta salad is perfect as a side for grilled meats, burgers, or kabobs. It also stands on its own as a light lunch or picnic favorite and makes a great addition to any summer potluck or cookout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Greek Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours because the flavors have more time to meld.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, farfalle, or fusilli work great—anything that holds onto the dressing well.

How long does Greek Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Greek pasta salad a try and enjoy how easy and refreshing it is! It’s my go-to for sunny days and casual gatherings and I’d love to hear what fun additions or twists you bring to yours.

Happy Cooking!

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