This Mediterranean pasta salad is a potluck legend and a meal-prep dream: tender pasta tossed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, briny olives, red onion, and feta, all coated in a zesty lemon-herb dressing. It's bright, fresh, and somehow tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for packed lunches and gatherings alike.
Served cold or at room temperature, it's a no-fuss dish that feeds a crowd and disappears fast.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Make-ahead. Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Feeds a crowd. A reliable potluck and picnic favorite.
- Fresh and zesty. That lemon-herb dressing is everything.
Tips for the best results
Cook the pasta just to al dente and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking and prevent clumping. Dress it while slightly warm so it soaks up flavor, then add the cheese and herbs once cooled. Save a little extra dressing to refresh it before serving.
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Pasta tossed with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing.
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Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) rotini or fusilli pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup kalamata olives, halved
- 1 cup crumbled feta
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Dressing: 1/3 cup olive oil, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp oregano, 1 clove garlic minced, salt and pepper
Instructions
- Step 1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water, then drain well.
- Step 2. Whisk together all the dressing ingredients.
- Step 3. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- Step 4. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat. Fold in the feta and parsley.
- Step 5. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Make it your own
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a meal, toss in roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes, or swap feta for fresh mozzarella. Whole-wheat or chickpea pasta works for a heartier or gluten-free version.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it keep? Up to 4 days refrigerated, making it ideal for meal prep.
Why is my pasta salad dry? Pasta absorbs dressing as it sits — keep extra dressing on hand to toss in before serving.
Can I serve it warm? It's best cold or at room temperature, which lets the flavors meld.
