This colorful Mediterranean pasta salad is packed with fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers! It’s a perfect dish for a sunny day or a quick picnic.
There’s something about that bright, zesty dressing that makes me want to eat it all. Plus, it’s so easy to make—just toss everything together, and you’re ready to feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using rotini for this salad because its shape helps hold onto the dressing. However, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli if rotini isn’t available.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness adds freshness. If you can’t find them, try using diced regular tomatoes or grape tomatoes instead.
Cucumber: Crisp cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. If you’re looking for a twist, use diced bell peppers or zucchini instead.
Kalamata Olives: These provide a rich, briny flavor. If olives aren’t your thing, you can substitute with capers or even skip them altogether.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a creamy texture. If you prefer a different flavor, try goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta Salad Is Just Right?
Getting the perfect pasta salad isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about making sure the pasta is cooked well and the flavors blend perfectly.
- Cook the pasta al dente so it holds up once mixed with dressing and veggies.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Let your salad chill for at least 30 minutes; this helps the flavors combine and taste better.
- When tossing, be gentle to avoid breaking up the pasta or veggies too much.
These steps will help you create a beautifully balanced and flavorful pasta salad every time!
Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or jarred, drained)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let those yummy flavors blend together. So, plan for a total of about 45 minutes from start to tasty finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (which means it’s cooked but still has a little bite to it). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down completely. Set aside to let it drain well.
2. Mix Your Veggies:
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, pitted kalamata olives, and quartered artichoke hearts. Give it a gentle mix to get everything distributed evenly.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and the ingredients are nicely blended.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your pasta and veggie mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta and veggies are coated with the dressing evenly.
5. Add the Final Touches:
Now, it’s time to fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh basil. This adds that lovely creamy texture and fresh flavor!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. If you feel like it needs more flavor, you can add a touch more salt, pepper, or even some red pepper flakes for heat. Mix it again gently to incorporate any adjustments.
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Once it’s ready, serve it cold or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a light and satisfying meal!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber, and gluten-free pasta works just as well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as cook times may vary.
How Long Will This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This Mediterranean pasta salad will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the veggies might start to lose their texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Proteins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative and add other veggies such as bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted zucchini. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent choices!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you find the salad dry after chilling, add a splash of olive oil or a little more dressing to freshen it up before serving again.
