This Mediterranean pasta salad is vibrant and packed with fresh flavors! It brings together colorful veggies like tomatoes and cucumbers, along with tasty olives and feta cheese.
Making this salad is a breeze! I love how I can whip it up in no time and serve it at picnics or lunch. Plus, it’s perfect for warm days when I want something light and refreshing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape captures the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, try penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Any short pasta works great!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. If they’re not in season, use regular tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor!
Cucumber: Fresh and crunchy, cucumbers really light up the salad. For a twist, use diced bell peppers or radishes if you’re out of cucumber.
Kalamata Olives: The briny taste adds depth. If you prefer, green olives or black olives will also work, or you can leave them out for a milder flavor.
Feta Cheese: It gives a creamy texture. If you want a non-dairy option, crumbled tofu or nutritional yeast can be used for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta correctly makes a big difference in texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Boil water in a large pot. Add enough salt so it tastes like the sea; this flavors the pasta.
- Add pasta and stir occasionally. Cook until it’s al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite when tasted.
- Once done, drain it in a colander, and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.
This method ensures your pasta in the salad stays firm and delicious!
Easy Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced or quartered
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad will take about 15 minutes of active preparation time and then an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Perfect for meal prep or a quick side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This will stop the cooking process and keep the pasta from getting mushy. Set it aside in a bowl.
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, pitted Kalamata olives, chopped artichoke hearts, and diced red onion. This colorful mix brings a fresh Mediterranean vibe to your salad!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix it well until everything is nicely combined.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Gently toss everything together to make sure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the delicious dressing!
5. Add Cheese and Basil:
Next, fold in the crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped basil. These ingredients add a wonderful creaminess and herbaceous flavor to your salad.
6. Season and Chill:
Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a little kick, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes. Then, cover the salad and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all those wonderful flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, you can enjoy this salad cold or at room temperature! It makes for a refreshing side dish or a light main course full of Mediterranean goodness.
Enjoy your bright and easy Mediterranean pasta salad!
FAQ for Easy Refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice pasta or corn-based pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to package directions to get the best texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making for a great next-day lunch!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free feta alternative. You can also add extra chickpeas or avocado for a creamy texture!
Can I Add Protein to This Salad?
Yes! This salad is versatile. You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based protein boost. Just mix it in with the other ingredients for a heartier meal!
