Oh, let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the vibrant and fresh flavors of Mediterranean cooking! It’s all about those delicious ingredients that just sing together—think juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta. My Mediterranean pasta salad is a perfect example of that magic! It’s colorful, easy to make, and perfect for everything from casual gatherings to meal prep on those busy weeks. I love whipping this up because it’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients List

• 2 cups of pasta (I love using fusilli or penne for their perfect bite!)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (they add such a juicy sweetness)
• 1 cucumber, diced (for that lovely crunch)
• 1/2 red onion, diced (it gives a nice bite and color)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (the brininess is a must!)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (the creaminess just ties everything together)
• 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin if you can, it’s so flavorful)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (for a tangy kick!)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (this adds that classic Mediterranean touch)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy—season it well!)

How to Prepare *Mediterranean Pasta Salad*

Okay, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delightful Mediterranean pasta salad! Trust me, you’re going to love how simple this is. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s ready to impress!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, grab your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Usually, this means boiling it in salted water for about 8–10 minutes until it’s al dente. You want it to be firm but cooked through. Once it’s done, drain it and rinse it under cold water. This is super important because it stops the cooking process and helps keep the pasta from getting mushy. Plus, it cools it down, which is exactly what we want for a salad!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Now that your pasta is ready, it’s time to mix everything together. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. This is where the magic happens! Make sure to mix everything well so those lovely flavors blend together. Don’t be afraid to get in there with your hands or a big spoon—just be gentle so you don’t break up the feta too much!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Next up, let’s whip up the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a taste—if you want it a bit tangier, add more vinegar; if you prefer it richer, a touch more olive oil can do the trick. Just remember, you’re the chef here, so adjust it to your liking!

Step 4: Toss and Chill

Now, pour that delicious dressing over your pasta salad. Toss everything together until it’s well coated—this is where the flavors really come alive! Once it looks all mixed and pretty, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Trust me, letting it chill helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you’ll have a refreshing salad that’s bursting with Mediterranean goodness!

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Keep an eye on it and taste a piece a minute or two before the package says it’s done.
• Make sure to rinse the pasta well with cold water after cooking. This keeps it from sticking together and getting mushy.
• Chill your salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This really helps the flavors meld and makes it extra refreshing!
• Feel free to taste and adjust the dressing as you go. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so make it yours!
• If you’re prepping ahead, wait to add the feta until just before serving to keep it fresh and crumbly.

Nutritional Information

So, if you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown of this scrumptious Mediterranean pasta salad, here it is! Each serving (about 1 cup) has roughly 250 calories, 12g of fat, 7g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Remember, these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so feel free to adjust as you customize your salad!

Variations

One of the best things about this Mediterranean pasta salad is how versatile it is! You can totally make it your own with just a few tweaks. Want to add a little crunch? Toss in some diced bell peppers or shredded carrots! For extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp. If you’re a fan of greens, throw in some baby spinach or arugula for a fresh twist. And don’t forget, you can switch up the cheese too—goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can give it a different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, serve this Mediterranean pasta salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a delicious main course. It also pairs beautifully with a light lemon herb chicken or some warm pita bread and hummus. For a complete Mediterranean feast, add a side of tzatziki or a fresh Greek salad!

FAQ Section

Can I make this Mediterranean pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just remember to add the feta just before serving to keep it fresh!

Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While fusilli and penne are my favorites, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Mediterranean pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. It holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re not a feta fan, try using goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative. They both add a lovely creaminess to the salad!

Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! This salad is super flexible. Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes for an extra flavor boost.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad: 4 Simple Steps to Delight!

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A fresh and colorful Mediterranean pasta salad that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups of pasta (fusilli or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
• Adjust the dressing to your taste by adding more vinegar or oil.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: mediterranean pasta salad, easy pasta salad, salad recipe