This refreshing Greek pasta salad is perfect for summer days! It features colorful veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, tossed with pasta and a tangy dressing.
I love how it’s quick to make and even better the next day. Grab some feta cheese to sprinkle on top, and you’ve got a delightful dish everyone will enjoy! 🍅🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne, rotini, or farfalle. These shapes hold the dressing well! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try chickpea pasta or quinoa pasta instead.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumber are staples. If you want a little crunch, try bell peppers or even radishes. You can substitute the bell pepper with a yellow or red one for a little sweetness!
Kalamata olives: These add a rich flavor, but if you can’t find them, green olives work too. Just slice them up to sprinkle in. I also love adding artichoke hearts for extra flavor!
Feta cheese: Feta gives this salad a nice tang. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, try goat cheese, or for a dairy-free option, use a vegan feta.
How Do You Keep Pasta from Sticking Together?
Rinsing the cooked pasta under cold water is key to preventing sticking. You’ll want to do this right after draining it. Here’s how:
- Cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain it in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold water. This cools it down and stops the cooking process.
- Make sure to toss it gently while rinsing to separate any strands.
This simple step will keep your pasta nice and fluffy in the salad!
What’s the Best Way to Dress the Salad?
When dressing your salad, it’s crucial to let it sit after mixing. Here’s a pro tip:
- Mix the dressing ingredients thoroughly before pouring it over the salad.
- Once tossed, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the pasta and veggies to absorb the flavors.
This resting time makes a big difference in taste!
Easy Greek Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Cheese and Herbs:
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 30 minutes of chilling time. So, in total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to complete this easy and vibrant dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once ready, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down and prevent it from sticking together. This helps keep your pasta nice and fluffy!
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced green bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and Kalamata olives. Make sure everything is mixed well for an even distribution of flavors.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic (powder or minced), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. This dressing will give your salad a fresh and zesty flavor!
4. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to make sure all the ingredients are coated evenly in the dressing. This step is key to getting the flavors to meld!
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley to the salad. Toss lightly again, being careful not to break the feta too much. You want those delightful chunks of cheese throughout the salad!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, making every bite delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take it out of the fridge. You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. This refreshing Greek pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a quick lunch. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta options like chickpea or brown rice pasta work great as well. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Yes! Feel free to customize! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts can be great additions. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even distribution and flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop! Just give it a gentle toss before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated, and it’ll be even more flavorful on the day you serve it. Just be sure to add the feta close to serving time so it stays fresh!
