This Mediterranean pasta salad is a burst of fresh flavors! With tasty veggies, olives, and feta cheese, it’s perfect for a light meal or a side dish at get-togethers.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, chop the veggies, and mix everything together. I love adding a squeeze of lemon for that zesty kick. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini is fun to eat and holds the dressing well! You can also use fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta if you prefer a healthier option.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If out of season, try grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes for a different texture.
Cucumber: I love crunching on cucumbers! Try swapping for bell peppers for more color and sweetness, or use zucchini for a slightly different taste.
Kalamata Olives: They bring a salty punch! If you don’t have them, green olives or black olives can work too. Just keep in mind they will change the flavor slightly.
Feta Cheese: I think crumbled feta is a must. For a goat cheese alternative, that works too, or omit it for a vegan option!
How Do I Make the Dressing Just Right?
Getting the dressing right is key to making this pasta salad sing. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by mixing olive oil and either red wine vinegar or lemon juice. I love using lemon juice for a fresh zing!
- Add dried oregano for that classic Mediterranean taste. Mix it all together with salt and pepper until well blended.
- Feel free to adjust the flavors. If you like tanginess, add a bit more vinegar or juice!
Letting the dressing sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing your salad!
Easy Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or other short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or quartered
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, quartered
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in just about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This stops the cooking process, keeping it from becoming soggy. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine the Veggies:
In the same bowl with the cooled pasta, add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, finely diced red onion, Kalamata olives, and marinated artichoke hearts. These fresh ingredients give the salad a vibrant color and wonderful crunch!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), dried oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully!
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to combine everything, making sure that each piece is covered in that delicious dressing. Then, add the crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil, tossing lightly again to distribute.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs more flavor, feel free to add additional salt, pepper, or even more vinegar or lemon juice. You want it just right for your taste!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Before serving, if you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Serve your refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad cold or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can vary.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Mediterranean pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify over time, making it taste even better the next day!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra color and nutrition. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces!
Is There a Vegan Option for This Salad?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add some additional nuts or seeds for creaminess and crunch!
