Pin to Board A vibrant, refreshing pasta salad featuring tangy feta, briny olives, ripe tomatoes, and crisp vegetables—all tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing. The perfect light Mediterranean-inspired plate for warm weeknight dinners.
This salad became a staple in my home during warm months because it's both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle), Salt for boiling water
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 medium cucumber diced, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1/2 red bell pepper diced
- Cheese & Olives: 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese crumbled, 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
- Dressing: 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh basil sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl combine cherry tomatoes cucumber red onion and red bell pepper.
- Step 3:
- Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the vegetables.
- Step 4:
- In a small bowl or jar whisk together olive oil lemon juice oregano garlic salt and pepper to make the dressing.
- Step 5:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 6:
- Add the crumbled feta cheese Kalamata olives parsley and basil (if using). Toss lightly to distribute.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pin to Board This recipe reminds me of family dinners on warm evenings where fresh ingredients are the highlight of every meal.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 19 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 13 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, and crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry rosé are perfect drink choices.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (feta cheese) and wheat (pasta). For a gluten-free version use certified gluten-free pasta.
Pin to Board 
This pasta salad is a quick healthy meal perfect for any occasion and can be made ahead for convenience.
Common Questions
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle holds the dressing well and blends perfectly with the fresh vegetables.
- → Can this dish be made ahead?
Yes, preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld; keep chilled and toss gently before serving.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent additions for extra protein without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- → What substitutions suit dietary needs?
Using certified gluten-free pasta creates a gluten-free option, and fresh herbs can be adjusted to taste.
- → Which herbs enhance the flavor?
Fresh parsley provides brightness, and basil adds a sweet, aromatic touch that complements the vegetables and cheese.