This Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad is bright and fresh, packed with colorful veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Tossed in a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for sunny days!
Honestly, this dish is my go-to for potlucks. It makes a big batch, so I can save leftovers for lunch (if they last that long)! Don’t forget the feta cheese—it makes it extra tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is great for capturing all that dressing, but any short pasta works well, like fusilli or penne. If you’re gluten-free, try quinoa pasta or brown rice pasta instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using sweet cherry tomatoes for their burst of flavor. Grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes can be swapped in. Just choose what’s freshest!
Cucumber: A crisp cucumber adds crunch! If you want something a bit different, use bell peppers for a sweet touch. If you’re avoiding cucumbers, zucchini is a nice option, too.
Olives: Kalamata olives bring a distinctive flavor, but you can use green olives or skip them altogether if you prefer. Keep in mind that pitted olives are easier to eat!
Feta Cheese: Feta is perfect for that tangy touch, but goat cheese or even cubed mozzarella can work if feta isn’t your favorite.
How Do I Ensure the Pasta Doesn’t Get Mushy?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is crucial! Here’s how to get that perfect al dente pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, but check a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Test a piece: it should be firm when you bite it. If it’s still hard, give it another minute.
- Once ready, drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water. This halts the cooking and helps maintain that ideal texture.
Following these steps helps your pasta salad stay fresh and delicious!
Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill and allow the flavors to combine. In total, you should plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and tasty option for lunches or gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it until it’s al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and then rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Drain well and set aside.
2. Combine Your Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, and fresh spinach leaves. Toss gently to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This dressing will add a wonderful zing to your salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Toss everything until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing. Feel free to adjust the seasoning if you want to; add more salt and pepper as needed.
5. Add the Feta Cheese:
Now, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. This adds creaminess and a burst of flavor to the salad.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Regular Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute for added fiber and nutrients. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta might take a bit longer to reach the al dente texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Mediterranean Pasta Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, but be mindful that the vegetables might soften a bit.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Salad?
This recipe is quite versatile! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, artichoke hearts, or even shredded carrots for extra color and crunch. Just ensure to chop everything into bite-sized pieces!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The salad will still be delicious and refreshing!
