Savory Greek Pasta Salad
Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures
A refreshing and hearty dish, perfect for summer picnics or as a side for any meal.
This Savory Greek Pasta Salad combines the vibrant flavors of Greece with the satisfying texture of pasta, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
- Great as a light lunch or a side dish for gatherings
Fresh Mediterranean Flavors
Savory Greek Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of vibrant ingredients that showcase the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The dish is packed with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers, which add a satisfying crunch and a burst of color. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, with the tangy feta cheese and briny Kalamata olives elevating the salad to new heights. This medley not only pleases the palate but also provides a healthy option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals.
The use of rotini pasta adds a playful texture that holds onto the dressing and ingredients beautifully. This makes each forkful a perfect blend of taste and texture, satisfying both hunger and cravings for something fresh and delicious. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a complement to grilled meats, this pasta salad is sure to impress.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of Savory Greek Pasta Salad is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. The pasta cooks in under ten minutes, and while it cools, you can chop the fresh vegetables and whisk together the dressing. This streamlined process is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This recipe is also highly adaptable. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Want to add some protein? Grilled chicken or chickpeas can make this salad even heartier. The flexibility of this dish makes it a go-to option for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Savory Greek Pasta Salad shines at summer picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, providing a refreshing counterpoint to heavier dishes. Its vibrant colors and inviting presentation make it a star on the table, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Additionally, the salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is versatile enough to fit any menu. Its balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein ensures that it not only satisfies hunger but also fuels your day. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with grilled meats or fish for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 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 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to adjust the ingredients to your taste!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
Enjoy your refreshing Greek Pasta Salad!
Storage Tips
To ensure your Savory Greek Pasta Salad stays fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. However, to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy, consider adding the dressing only when you're ready to serve.
If you find yourself with leftovers, feel free to refresh the salad by adding a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This little trick can help revive the flavors and keep the dish tasting fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Savory Greek Pasta Salad makes for a fantastic standalone dish, but don’t hesitate to serve it alongside grilled meats, seafood, or a hearty soup. It pairs particularly well with grilled chicken or shrimp, as the flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a balanced meal that satisfies all tastes.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of crusty bread or a creamy tzatziki dip. This combination not only enhances the Mediterranean theme but also provides a satisfying dining experience that your guests will love.
Nutritional Benefits
This pasta salad is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the olive oil offers healthy fats that can support heart health. Feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess and protein, making this salad a well-rounded meal that nourishes the body.
Incorporating ingredients like olives and fresh herbs also contributes antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this dish not only flavorful but also a smart choice for health-conscious eaters. Enjoying Savory Greek Pasta Salad is a delicious way to treat yourself while also taking care of your health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add artichoke hearts, spinach, or even avocado for more variety.
→ Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.
Savory Greek Pasta Salad
A refreshing and hearty dish, perfect for summer picnics or as a side for any meal.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Global Taste Adventures
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 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 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 9g