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Fresh Greek Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives

fresh greek pasta salad - featured image

A quick and easy Greek pasta salad featuring rotini pasta, creamy feta, Kalamata olives, fresh veggies, and a bright lemon-oregano vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or bow-tie pasta
  • 6 ounces block feta cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Shake gently to remove excess water.
  3. While pasta cooks, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley and fresh oregano. Set aside.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and cubed feta cheese. Pour the dressing over and gently fold to combine, being careful not to break up the feta too much.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, toss gently and optionally sprinkle more fresh parsley or oregano.

Notes

Salt pasta water generously. Rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent sogginess. Gently fold feta to keep chunks intact. Dressing can be made ahead. For gluten-free, substitute pasta with quinoa or chickpea pasta. Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek pasta salad, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, summer salad, easy pasta salad, Mediterranean salad, lemon oregano vinaigrette