Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Authentic Food

I always look forward to making this Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta, especially during warm weather months. The bright flavors of the Mediterranean come together in a quick and colorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbeques, or light dinners. Tossing everything together takes hardly any time at all, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. With its mix of fresh vegetables, salty feta, and zesty dressing, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that always leaves me going back for seconds.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:59:34.641Z

As the weather warms up, I find myself reaching for this Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta more often. I tried several variations, but I keep coming back to this uncomplicated recipe that showcases fresh ingredients. One of the key components is the quality of the feta cheese used; it makes all the difference in flavor and texture.

While preparing this dish, I learned that letting the salad sit for a bit before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I always save some dressing to toss in just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion
Versatile ingredients that can be customized to your liking

Choosing the Right Pasta

For this Mediterranean Pasta Salad, I recommend using penne pasta due to its tubular shape, which holds onto the dressing and flavors beautifully. If you want to switch things up, fusilli or farfalle also work well and add some visual interest. Just remember that the cooking time may differ slightly based on the pasta shape—check the package instructions for guidance and aim for al dente to maintain a good texture in the salad.

It's crucial to rinse the pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from getting sticky. A quick rinse also brings the temperature down, making it more suitable for mixing with fresh vegetables without wilting them.

Elevating Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Fresh, seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers are key to achieving that vibrant Mediterranean flavor profile. For a twist, consider adding olives like green or castelvetrano, which bring their unique briny notes. If you can find it, hot house or vine-ripened tomatoes offer a sweetness that enhances the salad further during peak tomato season.

When it comes to herbs, fresh parsley adds a bright finish in flavor and color. If you're feeling adventurous, swap it out for fresh basil or mint for a different but complementary flavor that often shines in Mediterranean dishes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This pasta salad is an excellent make-ahead dish as the flavors deepen when left to marinate. If preparing in advance, combine all salad components—minus the dressing—up to a day prior to serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the dressing about 30 minutes before serving to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp.

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. The feta and olives may impart more saltiness over time, so you might want to add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil to liven it up before serving again.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Enjoy your fresh Mediterranean Pasta Salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

Serve and enjoy your Mediterranean flavors!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand for a custom twist on this classic dish.

Variations to Try

For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This not only makes the salad more filling but also adds an extra layer of texture. If you're incorporating meat, season it well before grilling to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

For a gluten-free option, substitute the traditional pasta with gluten-free penne or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini. This will alter the texture, but it will still remain a refreshing salad full of taste.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it chilled as a side dish at your next barbecue, or as a light main dish alongside a protein of your choice. Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh baguette to soak up the delicious dressing.

For a more substantial meal, consider pairing the salad with a protein like grilled steak or lamb. The savory notes from the meat balance beautifully with the fresh salad, making for a satisfying dinner option.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the pasta salad feels too dry after mixing, drizzle in a bit more olive oil or a splash of vinegar. This can help to bring the dish back to life and enhance the flavor. Be cautious not to overdo it, though, as it can overwhelm the freshness of the ingredients.

Should the salad taste a bit flat, a sprinkle of sea salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the entire dish. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, especially after storing the salad, as flavors may evolve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to keep everything fresh.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add ingredients like artichoke hearts, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Is it okay to use different types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.