Classic Greek Pasta Salad
A fresh and colorful Greek Pasta Salad packed with Mediterranean flavors—juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and pasta tossed in a tangy homemade oregano dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, meal prep, or a light lunch.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
Salad
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini, penne, or bow-tie pasta
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (optional)
Greek Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta.
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Make the dressing.
- Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Combine ingredients.
- In a large bowl, add pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, feta, parsley, and dill.
- Dress the salad.
- Pour dressing over the pasta mixture.
- Toss gently until everything is coated.
- Chill and serve.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Add extra feta or herbs before serving if desired.
Optional Add-Ins
- 🥗 Chickpeas for extra protein
- 🍗 Grilled chicken
- 🦐 Grilled shrimp
- 🥑 Avocado
- 🌱 Fresh spinach
- 🌶️ Pepperoncini for a tangy kick
- 🧀 Extra feta or goat cheese
Storage
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 3–5 days in an airtight container.
- Add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving if the pasta absorbs the dressing.
Tips for the Best Greek Pasta Salad
- Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds its texture.
- Salt the pasta water well for better flavor.
- Let the salad rest before serving—the dressing becomes more flavorful as it sits.
- Use good-quality feta and Kalamata olives for an authentic Mediterranean taste.
This Greek pasta salad is crunchy, tangy, creamy, and refreshing—a perfect Mediterranean side dish for any gathering. 🇬🇷🥗