Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fusilli pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Ideas

I love a good pasta salad, and this Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta is one of my favorites. It’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with bold flavors that come together beautifully. Every bite offers a delightful mix of al dente pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta cheese. The dressing, made with extra virgin olive oil and tangy lemon juice, ties everything together perfectly. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, it’s a definite crowd-pleaser that I can’t resist making on warm days.

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:45:42.883Z

When I first tried making a Mediterranean Pasta Salad, I was amazed at how easily the flavors merged. The fresh ingredients are what make this dish stand out. I discovered that using high-quality feta cheese elevates the salad from simple to spectacular. It adds a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy veggies and tangy dressing.

To really bring out all of the flavors, I let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This little tip allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and the veggies to mingle, creating a more harmonious dish. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
Simple to prepare, perfect for meal prep
Can be served warm or cold for any occasion

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the vibrant flavors characteristic of a Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes, as their sweetness enhances the overall taste. When selecting cucumbers, look for smaller varieties, like Persian cucumbers, which are crisp and have fewer seeds, ensuring a refreshing crunch. I recommend buying feta cheese in blocks and crumbling it yourself; this method preserves its creaminess and prevents excess moisture from making the salad soggy.

Kalamata olives bring an essential briny flavor that perfectly complements the feta and vegetables. If you can't find Kalamata olives, green olives can be a suitable substitute, but they will impart a slightly different taste. Combining these fresh ingredients not only boosts the salad's flavor but also its texture, making every bite a delightful mix of crunch and creaminess.

Dressing Tips for Maximum Flavor

The dressing for this pasta salad plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall taste. I suggest using high-quality extra virgin olive oil, which brings a rich, fruity undertone to the salad. When whisking the dressing, be sure to do so thoroughly; the goal is to achieve a creamy, emulsified consistency that clings well to the pasta and vegetables. If you prefer a tangier flavor, adding a bit more lemon juice can brighten the entire dish beautifully.

Another option is to infuse the olive oil with herbs before tossing it into the salad. Allow fresh herbs or garlic to steep in the oil for a day to elevate the depth of flavor. Remember to taste as you go – adjusting salt and pepper will bring balance to the salad and ensure that every mouthful is seasoned just right.

Serving and Storing Your Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad can be enjoyed right away, but allowing it to sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge enhances the flavors. If making ahead of time, consider reserving some feta and vegetables to add just before serving, keeping the salad looking fresh and appetizing. It holds well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Just remember, if you're using cucumbers, they may release water over time, so enjoy the salad soon to get the best texture.

For those looking to serve a larger group, this recipe scales up easily – simply multiply the ingredients while maintaining the same ratios. If you wish to make it heartier, adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein is a fantastic option. Just be cautious with dressing amounts, as more ingredients can absorb additional flavors, leading to a dry salad if not adjusted accordingly.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

8 oz fusilli pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, diced
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fusilli pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. In a large bowl, combine the vegetables with the pitted olives and crumbled feta.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of vegetables and feta. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve the Salad

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the pasta with a gluten-free variety.

Garnishing Ideas

Elevate your Mediterranean Pasta Salad with some fresh herbs as a garnish, such as basil or mint, for a burst of color and a complimentary flavor profile. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can also add a wonderful crunch and a toasty aroma, making the salad visually appealing and even more satisfying to eat. Chives or thinly sliced green onions are another option for garnishing, lending a mild onion flavor that harmonizes well with the feta.

For an extra touch of zest, serve the salad with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to customize their flavor experience. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the salad based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers. These additions can diversify the flavors and textures, bringing a new dimension to your pasta salad. You can also switch up the cheese; goat cheese or a vegan feta can provide alternative creamy elements suitable for different dietary needs.

Another fun variation can be the addition of grains like quinoa or farro instead of pasta, which not only alters the texture but also enhances the nutritional profile of your salad. By incorporating different grains, you can create a hearty salad that's still wonderfully refreshing and loaded with Mediterranean flair.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad actually tastes better when made a day in advance, as the flavors develop further.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta, you can use goat cheese or even fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.

→ Is it okay to add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, such as artichokes, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

The pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.