This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any meal. With ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, it brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. The tangy dressing ties everything together, making it an excellent option for potlucks, picnics, or a healthy lunch.
Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is:
- Light and Refreshing: Fresh vegetables, herbs, and feta cheese give this dish a bright, tangy flavor.
- Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect side or main dish.
- Great for Meal Prep: It stays fresh in the fridge for days, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
For another light and refreshing dish, try this Vibrant Avocado and Quinoa Salad.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Pasta Salad
To create this flavorful salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta, such as rotini or farfalle.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Add a burst of sweetness and color.
- Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers give the salad a refreshing crunch.
- Olives: Kalamata olives bring a briny, salty flavor.
- Red Onion: Adds sharpness and flavor contrast.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil work well to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
- Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: These are the base for the tangy dressing.
Pair this salad with Zesty Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
- Assemble the Salad: Combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and crumbled feta in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
For another quick and easy salad idea, try Caprese Spinach Salad.
FAQs About Mediterranean Pasta Salad
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better when made ahead and chilled for a few hours or overnight. - What’s the best pasta to use?
Any short pasta like rotini, farfalle, or penne works well. - Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions to this salad.
Health Benefits of Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives are high in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Protein and Calcium: Feta cheese adds protein and calcium to the dish.
For more nutritious meals, try this Berry Beet Blast Smoothie.
Must-Try Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to make this Mediterranean-inspired dish:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Chop the vegetables and mix them with the pasta in a large bowl.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Let chill before serving.
For another light and healthy option, try this Healthy Veggie and Bean Burrito Bowl.
Storing and Serving Mediterranean Pasta Salad
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve Chilled: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch for easy, healthy meals throughout the week.
Conclusion: Light and Flavorful Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is an easy, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a potluck or packing it for lunch, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bright flavors of the Mediterranean with every bite!