This Mediterranean pasta salad is light and bursting with flavor! It features fresh veggies, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese, making it a perfect side or lunch option.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss everything together and you have a tasty meal ready to go. It’s like a mini vacation on a plate—without the sunscreen! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend rotini for its shape that holds onto the dressing and veggies well. If you can’t find rotini, penne or fusilli are great alternatives. Try whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for healthier options.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness. If they’re out of season, consider using sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor boost or even diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have.
Kalamata Olives: These provide a briny flavor. You can substitute with green olives or even canned black olives if you prefer a milder taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives tanginess. If you want a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu with a squeeze of lemon juice for a similar texture and flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness, but you can mix in parsley or even mint for a different twist. Dried herbs can work too, but fresh is always best!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Stays Fresh?
To keep your pasta salad fresh, focus on the pasta and dressing. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to rinse the pasta in cold water after cooking. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm.
- Don’t add the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much moisture.
- Keep your salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for a couple of days, but the fresher, the better!
And remember to give it a good toss before serving, as flavors might settle. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced into half-moons
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or jarred)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Time Needed:
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill. The total time you’ll need is roughly 45 minutes, including cooling! This is a quick dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Give it a good shake to remove excess water.
2. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, pitted kalamata olives, quartered artichoke hearts, and finely chopped red onion. This colorful mix makes the salad not just tasty but visually appealing too!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste your dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed to suit your preference.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies mixture. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly so every bite is deliciously coated!
5. Add Feta and Basil:
Now it’s time for the creamy feta cheese and fresh basil! Sprinkle the crumbled feta over the top and add the chopped basil. Gently toss again to mix without breaking up the feta too much.
6. Spice it Up (Optional):
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the salad. This is optional, but it adds a great flavor kick!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can serve it cold or let it come to room temperature. It’s perfect for picnics, lunches, or a light dinner!
Enjoy your easy, colorful, and vibrant Mediterranean pasta salad! It’s sure to be a hit at any meal!
FAQ for Easy Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make this pasta salad up to 24 hours in advance. Just prepare it as instructed, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to develop even more!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, crumbled tofu with a splash of lemon juice makes a great alternative. For a different flavor, try goat cheese or even vegan feta if you prefer a non-dairy substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad may absorb some dressing, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil and vinegar when serving the leftovers to revive the flavors.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your pasta salad. You can add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, chickpeas, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Just ensure that any additional ingredients complement the Mediterranean theme!
