Greek Pasta Salad Recipe | Pasta Salad With Olives

If you're craving a dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious, you're in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest Greek Pasta Salad. It's loaded with Mediterranean flavors, quick to prepare, and perfect for any gathering.

Why You'll Love This Spectacular Salad

• Fast. Ready in under 30 minutes, including prep time.
• Easy. Minimal cooking and chopping required, it's perfect for busy days.
• Customizable. Adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry.
• Delicious. Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing that brings everything together.

What Is Greek Pasta Salad?

Greek Pasta Salad is a cold salad featuring pasta and classic Greek ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Unlike creamy pasta salads, this one is light and bursting with herbaceous Mediterranean flavor.

What Does Greek Pasta Salad Taste Like?

Greek pasta salad is a staple for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners. The refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables paired with tender pasta and a tangy vinaigrette creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Whether served as a side dish or a light main, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients You'll Need

For The Pasta Salad

• Pasta- Short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne holds onto dressing and mixes well with chopped veggies.
• Cucumbers- Add crunch and cool freshness.
• Cherry Tomatoes- Juicy and sweet, perfect for balancing the tangy flavors.
• Kalamata Olives- A salty, briny bite that gives it classic Greek flavor.
• Red Onion- Adds sharpness and color; slice thinly for the best texture.
• Feta Cheese- Crumbled feta adds creamy, salty richness.
• Bell Peppers- Optional but adds sweetness and crunch.
• Fresh Parsley- Brightens the whole dish and adds a pop of color.

For The Dressing

• Olive Oil- A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness.
• Red Wine Vinegar- Brings the classic tangy bite.
• Garlic- Use fresh garlic for a bold punch.
• Lemon Juice- Fresh lemon juice adds extra brightness.
• Dried Oregano- A staple in Greek cuisine that adds herbal depth.
• Salt & Black Pepper- Essential to bring all the flavors together.

How To Make Greek Pasta Salad

1. Cook the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down quickly.
2. Make the Dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Prep the Veggies. While the pasta cooks, chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
4. Combine. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with chopped vegetables, olives, and feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve. Toss again, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve cold. Garnish with additional parsley, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of feta.

Tips And Tricks

Here’s how to make the best Greek Pasta Salad that is bright, tangy, and full of Mediterranean flavor. With these essential tips and tricks to help you get it just right every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients. Opt for ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and high-quality feta for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta. Slightly al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the dressing without becoming mushy.
• Chill Before Serving. Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors.
• Customize the Ingredients. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.

Variations

Greek Pasta Salad is already packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, but with a few easy variations, you can customize it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some delicious twists to try:

• Spicy Kick- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Herb Lovers- Mix in fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.
• Low Carb Option- Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Vegan- Use a vegan feta substitute or omit the cheese entirely.

What To Eat With Greek Pasta Salad

Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant, zesty dish on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and mains can turn it into a stunning, well-rounded meal. Here are the best dishes to enjoy with it:

• Grilled Meats- Chicken souvlaki, lamb chops, or steak.
• Seafood- Grilled salmon or shrimp skewers.
• Bread- Warm pita or crusty bread.
• Other Sides- Tzatziki or hummus.

How Long Does It Last?

Greek pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

The flavors may intensify over time, but be sure to toss it before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can You Freeze It?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Greek pasta salad without the fresh vegetables and feta.

When ready to serve, thaw, add the veggies and cheese, and toss with fresh dressing.

More Greek-Inspired Dishes

• Greek Rice
• Tzatziki
• Greek Chicken Skewers
• Instant Pot Greek Green Beans
• Greek Cucumber Salad

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