What makes Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad different from other pasta salads?

My Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad is special. It combines cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and tangy feta cheese. The zesty olive oil and herb dressing bring out the Mediterranean taste.

Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days. The flavors get better over time, making it great for quick meals or sides.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap regular pasta for gluten-free options like chickpea pasta or quinoa pasta. This keeps the salad's texture and meets dietary needs.

How long does this pasta salad need to be refrigerated before serving?

Chill it for at least 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This lets the flavors mix well and the ingredients soak up the dressing.

What are some protein additions to make this a complete meal?

Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, canned tuna, or grilled shrimp to make it a full meal. These proteins add to the Mediterranean taste and nutritional value.

Is this salad considered healthy?

Definitely! It's full of vegetables, healthy fats, protein, and complex carbs. This makes it a balanced and nutritious dish.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can. Replace feta with cashew cheese, tofu feta, or nutritional yeast. Use vegan pasta and plant-based ingredients for a vegan version.

What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Eat it within 3-4 days for the best taste. Keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess.

Can I serve this salad warm or is it best cold?

You can serve it at room temperature or slightly warm. But I prefer it chilled. The flavors are more vibrant and refreshing when it's cool.

What herbs work best in this Mediterranean pasta salad?

Oregano, basil, and parsley are great choices. They add authentic Mediterranean flavors and a fresh taste. Dried herbs are okay, but fresh herbs are more vibrant.

Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad: 6 Amazing Summer Tips

Name: Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad: Fresh & Flavorful Summer Recipe Guide
Prep time: PT-486676H15M25S
Cook time: PT-486676H15M25S
Total time: PT-486676H15M25S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta (or rotini); 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 large cucumber, diced; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted; 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

Fresh and vibrant Mediterranean Feta Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings. This healthy pasta salad combines crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs in a light olive oil dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta (or rotini)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 large cucumber, diced

1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

8 oz feta cheese, crumbled

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process.

2. While pasta cooks, prepare vegetables by dicing cucumber, halving cherry tomatoes, and thinly slicing red onion.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano to create dressing.

4. Add cooled pasta to the bowl with dressing and toss to coat evenly.

5. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and fresh herbs to the pasta. Mix gently to combine.

6. Crumble feta cheese over the salad and fold in carefully to avoid breaking up the cheese too much.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

8. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

This salad tastes even better the next day as flavors have time to meld together.

Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

For gluten-free version, substitute with chickpea or quinoa pasta.

For vegan version, replace feta with cashew-based cheese or nutritional yeast.

Add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans to make it a complete meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT12M
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 285
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 22mg