This colorful Greek pasta salad is a fun mix of pasta, fresh veggies, and tangy feta cheese. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a lively potluck dish that everyone will love!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything together and enjoy the bright flavors. You can even make it ahead—just don’t blame me if it disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rotini because its shape holds onto the dressing and veggies well. If you prefer, you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this salad its distinctive flavor. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese for a milder taste or crumbled tofu for a dairy-free option.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers add freshness and crunch. You can switch any of them with simple veggies like zucchini or broccoli to mix things up.
Olives: Kalamata olives add a briny kick. If you prefer something less salty, green olives can be a great substitute.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Pasta Salad?
The dressing is key to tying all the flavors together. Mixing the olive oil with red wine vinegar adds a wonderful tang. It’s also essential to balance the seasoning.
- Start by whisking olive oil and vinegar in a separate bowl.
- Add dried oregano and garlic for lots of flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper, tasting it as you go to make sure it suits your preference.
- Pour over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
Easy Greek Pasta Salad with Feta and Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta), cooked and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder or 1 small clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek pasta salad can be put together in about 20 minutes, plus you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend beautifully. So, total time is around 50 minutes. Perfect for a quick, tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain it and give it a quick rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to let it drain completely.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and the halved Kalamata olives. This mixture is what makes your salad so vibrant and tasty!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar to create a smooth dressing. Then add in the dried oregano, minced garlic (or garlic powder), and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Toss everything gently to make sure the pasta and veggies are well-coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Add the Feta and Parsley:
Now it’s time to fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Gently mix it in so you don’t break up the feta too much.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This resting time lets all the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your refreshing Greek pasta salad!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the rotini pasta with any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftover Greek pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in additional veggies like spinach, artichokes, or even some roasted red peppers for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to overpower the balance of flavors.
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for feta, try crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free feta made from nuts. Both options will provide a tasty addition without compromising the dish!
