Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of crunchy vegetables, briny olives, creamy feta cheese, and zesty lemon dressing makes each bite a burst of deliciousness. It’s the perfect side dish for summer barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch. This salad is easy to make, customizable, and can be served immediately or chilled for a more flavorful experience. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to add protein or make it creamy, depending on your preferences!

Ingredients

• 300 g (10.5 oz) pasta shapes
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 55 g (½ cup) mixed olives
• 60 g (½ cup) feta, crumbled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 lemon (juice and zest only)
• 1 pinch sea salt and ground black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 10 g (½ cup) fresh dill, finely chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Add the 300 g pasta shapes to a pan of lightly salted boiling water. Simmer for 12 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced green bell pepper, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and mixed olives.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the red onion, crushed garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice and zest, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Serve:
   • Just before serving, crumble the feta cheese on top of the salad. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations and Tips

• Cheese Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of feta, try using chunks of cheddar, parmesan, or grilled halloumi cheese for a different flavor.
• Protein Add-ins: For a heartier salad, add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or a salmon fillet on top to boost the protein.
• Creamy Option: Turn this into a creamy pasta salad by swapping the olive oil and vinegar dressing for a creamy dressing like ranch or Caesar.
• Pasta Cooking Tips: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and rinse it in cold water immediately to stop the cooking process, preserving the texture.
• Red Onion Alternatives: If raw red onion is too strong for your taste, you can soften it by sautéing it in a little oil or swap it for milder shallots.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad gets even better as it sits and absorbs the flavors.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day ahead, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to add the feta just before serving to keep it fresh.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of short pasta, such as penne, rotini, or farfalle, depending on your preference.

How do I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This Greek Pasta Salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After a couple of days, the vegetables may soften a bit, but the flavor will still be great.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables like cucumbers, red bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, simply substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go!

Conclusion

Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that’s packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you serve it as a side dish at a barbecue, as a light lunch, or as a meal prep option, this salad is sure to impress. With its versatility, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors in a simple, satisfying salad. Enjoy it as-is or customize it with your favorite toppings!

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