Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad Recipe

This Mediterranean feta pasta salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish, perfect for picnics or as a side for grilled meats. It combines al dente pasta with fresh vegetables, olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a light dressing.

The recipe is simple and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or add protein for a complete meal.

Ingredients That Shine

The Mediterranean feta pasta salad is a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.

At the heart of this dish is pasta, which serves as the perfect base.

Complementing the pasta are vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy Kalamata olives, each adding a unique flavor and texture.

Crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy richness, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

These ingredients not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to a delightful taste experience.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing this salad is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking the pasta until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

While the pasta cooks, chop the vegetables to ensure they are ready to mix in once the pasta is cooled.

Making the dressing is quick too; just whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper for a tangy vinaigrette that ties everything together.

Mixing It All Together

Once the pasta has cooled, combine it with the chopped vegetables and crumbled feta in a large bowl.

Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring every ingredient is coated in the flavorful vinaigrette.

This step is crucial for melding the flavors, so take your time to mix thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways.

It makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, adding a refreshing contrast to rich flavors.

Alternatively, enjoy it as a light main course, especially on warm days when a hearty meal feels too heavy.

For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Storage and Meal Prep

The Mediterranean feta pasta salad is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for a couple of days.

In fact, letting it sit for a while allows the flavors to develop even more.

Just remember to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Final Touches

Garnishing with fresh parsley just before serving adds a lovely touch, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.

The rustic wooden table backdrop complements the salad’s fresh and inviting feel, making it an appealing dish for any gathering.

Whether for a picnic, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, this Mediterranean feta pasta salad is sure to impress.

Easy Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad Recipe

This pasta salad features cooked pasta mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese, all drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g