Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta whenever I crave something light yet fulfilling. The combination of fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and tangy feta creates a medley of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s perfect for summer picnics or as a tasty side dish at family gatherings. The best part is how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T15:03:34.853Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful the dish turned out. I tailored the recipe to include my favorite vegetables, like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, which added a refreshing crunch. I also discovered that letting the salad sit for a bit allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing every bite.

The key is to not overcook the pasta; al dente gives it the perfect texture that holds up well with the dressing and vegetables. A splash of olive oil and a hint of lemon make the dressing vibrant and invigorating!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors and fresh flavors make every bite delightful.
Feta cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the dish perfectly.
Easily customizable for different tastes and dietary preferences.

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The success of the Mediterranean Pasta Salad heavily relies on the freshness of the ingredients. Choose ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers for a burst of flavor and crunch. If you can, visit a local farmer's market to find seasonal vegetables, as they will offer the best taste. Fresh herbs like parsley not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the overall freshness, complementing the salty feta perfectly.

When selecting your bell pepper, go for varieties that are vibrant and firm. Red or yellow peppers provide a sweeter flavor, enhancing the salad’s flavor profile, while green peppers can be more bitter. Don't hesitate to experiment with colors and flavors; you can even add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for an extra depth of taste and a beautiful visual contrast.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best aspects of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is its versatility. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. If you're aiming for a vegan version, simply replace the feta cheese with marinated tofu or avocado for creaminess. The recipe can easily adapt to accommodate various dietary preferences, making it a fantastic option for gatherings with diverse guests.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substituting the pasta with chickpea or lentil pasta offers a great alternative without sacrificing texture. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time, as these alternative pastas often have different requirements. Additionally, feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables you have on hand; zucchini or spinach can add a nice touch to your salad.

Preparing Ahead

Preparing this Mediterranean Pasta Salad in advance can save you time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. You can cook the pasta and chop the vegetables a day ahead, storing them separately in the fridge. Just remember to toss the salad with the dressing right before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture and becoming mushy.

The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, but if you plan to serve it at a gathering, I recommend waiting to add the feta until right before serving. This helps maintain its crumbly texture and prevents it from becoming overly soft. If you want to make it even more convenient, double the batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta.

Salad Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl for a refreshing side or main dish.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta.

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

This delightful pasta salad is perfect for serving cold as a refreshing main or side dish.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite proteins, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make this salad more filling.

Flavor Enhancements

For a flavor twist, consider adding a teaspoon of minced garlic or shallots to the dressing. This addition will introduce a savory depth that complements the feta cheese beautifully. You might also try incorporating some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, balancing the salad's creaminess with a warming spice.

Adjusting the acidity levels in the dressing can also impact the salad’s overall flavor. If you prefer a tangier profile, feel free to increase the lemon juice or vinegar slightly. Just be cautious not to overpower the dish; it's all about finding the right balance that enhances the fresh ingredients without masking their natural flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad can serve as a standalone meal on warm days, particularly when accompanied by grilled chicken or fish. Additionally, it serves beautifully as a side dish for a barbecue or picnic, pairing well with grilled meats and fresh bread. To elevate your presentation, serve it in a large bowl garnished with extra parsley and whole olives for a vibrant display.

If you're planning a potluck or a buffet, consider portioning the salad into individual cups or jars. This not only makes serving easier but also adds a fun, personalized touch to your table. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to ensure everything stays fresh and crispy until it’s time to dig in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to blend.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli are great choices as they hold the salad dressing and mix well with the vegetables.

→ Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan alternative.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite veggies, like zucchini or artichoke hearts.