Greek Pasta Salad Recipe (with Video)

Greek Pasta Salad Recipe: Greek pasta salad is a refreshing, colorful, and delicious dish that combines Mediterranean flavors with the heartiness of pasta. It’s a perfect meal for hot summer days, BBQs, potlucks, or quick meal prepping. Packed with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

What makes this salad truly special is its versatility. You can customize it to include your favorite ingredients, add protein, or make it gluten-free. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps. Let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious Greek pasta salad:

Pasta:

• 2 cups rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta (or gluten-free pasta)

Vegetables:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

Cheese:

• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

Protein (Optional):

• 1 cup grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas

Dressing Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Choosing the Right Pasta

The pasta you choose plays a key role in the texture of your salad. Here are some great options:

• Rotini or Fusilli: Their spiral shape holds the dressing well.
• Penne or Bowtie: Sturdy and easy to mix with veggies.
• Orzo: A small, rice-shaped pasta for a lighter salad.
• Gluten-Free Options: Chickpea or lentil pasta for added protein.

For best results, cook the pasta al dente so it holds its shape after mixing with the dressing.

Preparing the Vegetables

Fresh vegetables add crunch and flavor to your salad. Follow these tips for perfect chopping:

• Cherry Tomatoes: Slice in half for easy bites.
• Cucumber: Dice into small cubes for even distribution.
• Red Onion: Slice thinly for a milder taste. If too strong, soak in cold water for 10 minutes.
• Olives: Remove pits and slice for better texture.
• Bell Pepper: Chop into small pieces to balance the crunch.

For meal prepping, store chopped veggies separately and mix when ready to serve.

Making the Greek Dressing

A tangy and herby Greek dressing ties everything together. Here’s how to make it:

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and oregano.
2. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro tip: Shake the dressing before using to redistribute flavors!

Cooking the Pasta

To achieve the perfect texture:

1. Boil water: Use plenty of salted water to cook the pasta evenly.
2. Cook al dente: Follow package instructions but check a minute early.
3. Drain properly: Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Let it cool: Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

This ensures your pasta stays firm and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the dressing.

Combining the Ingredients

Now it’s time to put everything together:

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta.
2. Toss in the chopped vegetables and olives.
3. Add crumbled feta cheese and optional proteins.
4. Pour the Greek dressing over the mixture.
5. Gently mix to coat everything evenly.

Tip: Mix lightly to keep the ingredients from breaking apart.

Chilling the Salad

For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the pasta and veggies.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve in a large salad bowl for a family-style meal.
• Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or extra feta cheese for a fancy touch.
• Pair with warm pita bread or grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
• Avoid freezing, as the texture of pasta and veggies will change.

FAQs about Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

1. What type of pasta works best in a Greek pasta salad?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini are ideal for Greek pasta salad as they easily scoop up dressings and seasonings, ensuring a flavorful bite every time.

2. What are the key ingredients in a Greek pasta salad?

A classic Greek pasta salad includes kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano and basil.

3. How long should I cook the pasta for the salad?

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. This means the pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite, which usually takes about 7-8 minutes in boiling water.

4. Can I make Greek pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead of time can allow the flavors to meld together more thoroughly. However, for the best texture, add ingredients like feta cheese and fresh herbs just before serving.

5. What is the best way to dress Greek pasta salad?

For the best results, dress the pasta salad while the pasta is still warm so it absorbs the flavors more effectively. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before chilling.

6. How should I store leftover Greek pasta salad?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will last for 3-4 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

7. Is Greek pasta salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients and dressings are certified gluten-free as well.

8. What can I serve with Greek pasta salad?

It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a mezze platter. It’s also perfect for picnics and potlucks as a hearty side dish.

Conclusion

Greek pasta salad is a simple, refreshing, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers and healthy eaters alike. Whether you’re meal prepping, serving a crowd, or enjoying a light meal, this salad never disappoints!