Greek Pasta Salad makes meal prep both easy and delightful. It’s ideal as a side dish that shines at gatherings or as a full meal with the addition of grilled proteins. If you’re looking for a dish that melds Mediterranean flavors with practicality, this one’s for you.

• Cuisine: Greek
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
• Servings: 8

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for make-ahead – flavors meld beautifully as it sits.
• Versatile – serve as a side or add protein for a complete meal.
• Refreshing – full of fresh veggies and bold flavors.
• Transportable – great for picnics and potlucks.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces rotini (or other medium pasta): Provides a hearty base; rotini’s twists hold onto the dressing well.
• ¾ English cucumber (diced): Adds crisp, refreshing texture; substitute with regular cucumbers if needed.
• 1 pint grape tomatoes (halved): Burst of juicy, sweet flavor; cherry tomatoes work too.
• 1 bell pepper (red or orange, diced): Contributes crunch and a hint of sweetness; any color bell pepper is fine.
• ½ cup sliced pitted olives: Offers a salty balance; kalamata or black olives are typical choices.
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, tangy element; goat cheese could be a softer substitute.
• ⅓ cup diced red onion: Adds a sharp bite; soak in water beforehand to mellow if preferred.
• 1 cup Greek dressing: Ready-made or homemade, it brings the flavors together; adjust based on availability.
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar: Aids acidity and depth; apple cider vinegar could be an alternative.
• ⅓ cup olive oil: Liquid gold of Mediterranean cooking, it rounds out the dressing.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Subtle garlic infusion; fresh minced garlic can be used for a more pungent taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Greek herb; use fresh oregano for brighter notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek dressing, red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, and dried oregano. This emulsifies the dressing, ensuring even flavor distribution throughout the pasta salad.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rotini in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. This texture ensures the pasta will stand up to the dressing without getting mushy. Once cooked, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with diced cucumber, halved tomatoes, bell pepper, olives, red onion, and crumbled feta. This ensures every bite is packed with variety and flavor.

Step 4: Dress and Chill

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to coat thoroughly. Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different pasta type?

Yes, any medium pasta like penne or fusilli can be used. The key is choosing a shape that holds dressing well.

How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.

What proteins pair well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions to transforming this side into a complete meal.