Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, chopped; ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped; ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped; ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced; ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

Ready in just 20 minutes
Packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors
Great as a side dish or vegetarian main
Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins
Ideal for make-ahead meals and meal prep
Vegetarian and can be made vegan
Bright, zesty, and full of texture
No complicated steps or special tools needed
Pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches
Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Short pasta (fusilli, penne, farfalle, etc.)
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
Baby spinach (or arugula, baby kale)
Kalamata olives
Feta cheese (optional for vegan)
Red wine vinegar
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Do not overcook.
Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss to coat.
Add the spinach, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

Swap spinach with baby kale or arugula
Add canned chickpeas or white beans for extra protein
Mix in grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian version
Try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for deeper flavor
Use fresh herbs like basil, mint, or parsley
Spice it up with pickled onions or jalapeños
Replace feta with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version
Add artichoke hearts or hearts of palm for more Mediterranean flair
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option
Add cooked quinoa for a different texture

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
Stir well before serving, as dressing may settle
Not suitable for freezing
Best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature
If making ahead, leave out the greens and add just before serving

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours. Just store it covered in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

2. What’s the best pasta to use for this salad?

Short, textured pastas like fusilli, penne, or farfalle work best as they hold the dressing and mix-ins well.

3. Can I make this vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

4. How long does Mediterranean pasta salad last in the fridge?

It’s best within 48 hours. After that, the pasta softens and vegetables may wilt.

5. Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely. Chickpeas, grilled chicken, tuna, or shrimp are great additions.

6. Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?

Yes, rinse with cold water to cool the pasta quickly and prevent it from overcooking.

7. What vegetables can I substitute?

You can use bell peppers, red onion, artichokes, or even shredded carrots in place of or in addition to the listed vegetables.

8. Can I use bottled dressing?

Homemade dressing is preferred for flavor, but you can use a store-bought vinaigrette in a pinch.

9. What herbs work best in this salad?

Fresh basil, mint, parsley, or oregano all complement the Mediterranean flavors well.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, goat cheese, mozzarella pearls, or dairy-free cheese alternatives can be used instead of feta.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean pasta salad is a fast, flavorful, and flexible dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main course or a colorful side, its mix of tender pasta, crunchy veggies, briny olives, and zesty vinaigrette is sure to satisfy. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and ideal for feeding a crowd or prepping meals ahead.