Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

There’s something timeless and irresistibly satisfying about a well-made pasta salad, and when it comes to flavor, Greek Pasta Salad stands in a class of its own. With vibrant Mediterranean ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and herbaceous oregano, this salad is an explosion of color and taste.

Toss it all with perfectly cooked pasta and a bold lemony Greek dressing, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dish that works for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, or even as a light weekday lunch.

What makes this dish special is not just its taste, but its versatility and ease. It’s one of those rare recipes that’s just as delicious served chilled as it is at room temperature, making it ideal for make-ahead meals. It also travels beautifully — pack it for picnics, school lunches, or meal prep bowls.

Whether you’re feeding a group or looking for something fresh and wholesome for yourself, Greek Pasta Salad is a dish that feels indulgent, while actually being light and full of nutrients.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for pasta)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 300–350 kcal per serving (based on 8 servings)

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 cups cooked pasta (short shapes like rotini, penne, or bowties work best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced (preferably seedless or English cucumber)
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (optional, any color)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or fresh dill, chopped

For the Greek Dressing

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

• In a small bowl or mason jar, combine:
  • Olive oil
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Dijon mustard
  • Minced garlic
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper
• Whisk or shake until fully emulsified.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

• In a large bowl, combine:
  • Cooked and cooled pasta
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Red onions
  • Olives
  • Bell peppers (if using)
• Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Herbs

• Fold in the feta cheese and chopped parsley or dill.
• Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Step 5: Chill or Serve

• You can serve the salad immediately at room temperature or refrigerate it for 30–60 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• Garnish with a little more feta or fresh herbs before serving.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Fresh & Flavorful: Every bite bursts with tangy, savory, and herbal notes.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh for days in the fridge, perfect for make-ahead lunches.
• Ideal for Any Season: Light enough for summer, but satisfying enough year-round.
• One Bowl Wonder: Easy cleanup and fast prep time make it a no-fuss go-to.

Tips and Variations

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu make this a complete meal.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• More Veggies? Yes! Add artichoke hearts, spinach, avocado, or roasted red peppers.
• Cheese Options: Try cubed mozzarella or goat cheese for a different spin.
• No Dijon? Skip it or use a touch of honey for a milder dressing.

Serving Suggestions

• With Grilled Meats: Pair with chicken souvlaki, steak, or lamb chops for a Greek feast.
• As a Main Dish: Add protein and serve with warm pita or garlic bread.
• For Potlucks or Picnics: A perfect make-ahead dish that holds well at room temperature.
• In Lunch Boxes: Stays fresh and flavorful for hours — ideal for school or work meals.

Conclusion

Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing, vibrant, and wholesome dish that checks every box — easy to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for both busy weeknights and festive occasions. With its Mediterranean flair and colorful ingredients, it’s both visually stunning and satisfying to eat.

Once you try it, this dish will become a staple in your rotation, offering endless room for creativity while delivering consistently delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.

Q: How long will this salad last in the fridge?
A: Up to 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use bottled Greek dressing?
A: You can, but homemade dressing gives fresher, bolder flavor and is quick to make.

Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, it’s fully vegetarian. For a vegan version, use dairy-free feta or omit the cheese.

Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, fusilli, or farfalle (bowties) hold the dressing and ingredients well.