Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Feta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces of pasta (penne or bowtie); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Inspired Collection

I love preparing Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Feta for gatherings because it's colorful, hearty, and bursting with flavor. The combination of al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, and the tangy creaminess of feta creates a dish that truly celebrates the Mediterranean diet. This salad is not just a side; it's a vibrant centerpiece that can easily take the spotlight at any meal. Plus, it’s a breeze to make ahead of time, which means I can enjoy the company of my friends without stress!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:23:34.856Z

When I first made this Mediterranean Pasta Salad, I was blown away by how quickly it came together and how fresh it tasted. The secret is in using a good quality olive oil and fresh herbs, which really enhance the flavors of the dish. I remember adding a generous squeeze of lemon juice at the end that brought everything to life — it was the perfect finishing touch!

Since then, I've tried experimenting with various vegetables and proteins, but I always return to the classic combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese. What’s great is that it holds up well in the fridge, making it a perfect dish to prepare in advance for busy weeks or last-minute gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful medley of vegetables for a healthy boost
Tangy feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess
Perfectly customizable with your favorite ingredients

      

Selecting the Right Pasta

Choosing the right type of pasta is crucial for this Mediterranean Pasta Salad. Pasta shapes like penne or bowtie hold onto the dressing and bits of vegetables better than long, thin shapes like spaghetti. I recommend checking the package for cooking times—cooking until 'al dente' means it should still have a slight bite, providing the perfect texture against the crispness of the vegetables.

Also, consider the quality of your pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work well and add nutrition. If you're gluten-free, ensure your dressing and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur.

Vegetable Variations

The vegetable component is where you can really personalize this salad. While the recipe includes cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper, you can easily swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers of different colors for vibrant hues. Just keep in mind the flavors; for example, adding roasted red peppers can bring a sweet, smoky flavor.

For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or diced radishes. I suggest cutting vegetables into uniform sizes; this ensures they mix well and makes for a visually appealing salad. If you have leftover veggies from your fridge, don't hesitate to toss them in!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. However, if you find the salad a bit dry when ready to serve, a splash of olive oil or more lemon juice can revitalize it without compromising the taste.

If you’d like, you can also freeze this pasta salad for later enjoyment. Just remember to exclude the feta and dressing before freezing. Add these fresh components after thawing and directly before serving. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight—this will keep it from becoming watery or mushy.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 ounces of pasta (penne or bowtie)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Veggies

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

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Everything

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

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. You may also substitute the vegetables based on seasonal availability for the best flavor.

Tasting Notes

The combination of flavors in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad plays harmoniously. The acidity from the lemon juice pairs beautifully with the creamy feta, enhancing the overall taste experience. I personally love how the olives' brininess adds depth, while the crisp vegetables provide refreshing texture. You want to have a forkful that combines pasta, feta, and veggies for a balanced flavor explosion.

Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust at each stage. If the salad feels too tangy, balance it out with a little extra olive oil, while a pinch more salt can elevate the flavors further. Aim for a vibrant and cohesive dish—you want each bite to evoke the freshness of a Mediterranean summer.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad shines as a side dish at summer barbecues or picnics, but it's equally wonderful as a light main course. To switch things up, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp. The smoky char from the grill enhances the Mediterranean flavors of the salad—definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Presentation matters too! Try serving the salad in a large, colorful bowl topped with extra feta and parsley for a vibrant centerpiece. You can garnish with additional lemon wedges for guests who might want a little extra squeeze of zesty flavor before digging in.

Common Troubleshooting

If your pasta salad seems too dry, there are a couple of fixes. Aside from adding olive oil or lemon juice, you might have underdressed your salad. A well-dressed pasta salad shouldn't feel heavy but should have a nice sheen—look for that glossy finish as a cue.

In case your salad becomes overly salty due to feta or olives, consider adding a few more cool veggies to balance it out, or serve alongside a dollop of yogurt to cut through the saltiness while adding a cooling effect.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and add the feta just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Both provide a similar texture.

→ How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The salad is best enjoyed within 3-5 days, but make sure to keep it in an airtight container for freshness.

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta will work well. You can even experiment with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.