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Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

BySoha

Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe delivers brightness, balance, and structure in every bite. Clean acidity, quality olive oil, and well-prepared vegetables create depth without heaviness. Technique focuses on timing and seasoning so each ingredient keeps its identity. Designed for make-ahead ease, the salad performs equally well for casual meals and polished gatherings.

Ingredients List

  • 250 g short pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

mediterranean pasta salad recipe
Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop cooking.

Prepare the dressing

Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined.

Prepare the vegetables

Place tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives in a large mixing bowl.

Combine pasta and dressing

Add cooled pasta to the vegetables. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.

Finish the salad

Add feta cheese and fresh herbs. Toss lightly to preserve texture and presentation.

Rest before serving

Allow the salad to rest for 10 minutes so flavors integrate fully.

Cook Time

15 minutes

Servings

3 to 4 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

Storage Instructions

Transfer pasta salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving and refresh with a small drizzle of olive oil if needed.

Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a complete Mediterranean-style meal. Toasted pine nuts or chickpeas add texture without disrupting balance. Extra feta works well just before serving.

Seasonal Relevance

Mediterranean pasta salad suits spring and summer when fresh vegetables are at peak quality. Year-round preparation remains successful with firm, well-sourced produce.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Pasta Salad succeeds through restraint and precision. Balanced acidity, proper pasta cooking, and thoughtful assembly result in a dish that feels fresh, composed, and dependable. Ideal for preparation ahead of time, the recipe maintains quality without compromise.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
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Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

3-4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

1220

kcal
Total time

30

minutes

Mediterranean pasta salad prepared with al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, olives, feta, and a light olive oil dressing. Fresh, balanced, and well-structured, the salad works for make-ahead meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 250 g short pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • ½ cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced

  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • Salt, to taste

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Directions

  • Cook pasta in well-salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool.
  • Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
  • Combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and olives in a large bowl.
  • Add cooled pasta and pour dressing over the mixture. Toss gently.
  • Fold in feta and fresh herbs. Rest briefly before serving.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Cooling pasta before mixing prevents sogginess.
  • Balanced seasoning improves flavor after resting.
  • Add feta just before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can whole wheat pasta be used for this salad?
Whole wheat pasta works well and adds nuttiness. Cook slightly past al dente to keep texture pleasant once cooled.

How can the salad stay flavorful after refrigeration?
A light drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt before serving restore balance and aroma.

Is the salad suitable for picnics or outdoor events?
Yes. Keep chilled until serving and avoid direct heat to preserve freshness and food safety.

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