Greek Pasta Salad

Fresh, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, this Greek Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that instantly brightens any table. Tender bowtie pasta is tossed with crisp vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta, then coated in a bold homemade Greek dressing that’s tangy, herbaceous, and incredibly satisfying. It’s light yet filling, simple yet packed with texture—everything you want in a go-to pasta salad.

Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, meal prep, or an easy make-ahead lunch, this salad comes together effortlessly and tastes even better after a chill in the fridge. It’s fresh, vibrant, and endlessly craveable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh, crisp vegetables with bold Mediterranean flavor
• Easy to make ahead and perfect for entertaining
• Homemade Greek dressing that’s bright and zesty
• Naturally vegetarian and easy to customize
• Great as a side dish or light main meal

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

• Farfalle (bowtie) pasta – Holds dressing well and adds hearty texture
• Grape tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet
• English cucumber – Crisp and refreshing with minimal seeds
• Green bell pepper – Adds crunch and mild sweetness
• Feta cheese – Creamy, salty, and essential to Greek flavor
• Red onion – Sharp bite that balances the richness
• Kalamata olives – Briny, bold Mediterranean flavor
• Black olives – Milder contrast to Kalamata olives
• Fresh parsley – Brightens and freshens the salad

Greek Salad Dressing

• Extra virgin olive oil – Rich, smooth base for the dressing
• Red wine vinegar – Tangy acidity that defines Greek salads
• Dijon mustard – Adds body and subtle sharpness
• Garlic – Aromatic and savory backbone
• Lemon juice – Fresh citrus brightness
• Dried oregano – Classic Greek herb flavor
• Dried basil – Adds gentle herbal warmth
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors
• Black pepper – Mild heat and balance

How to Make Greek Pasta Salad

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large serving bowl.

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop the grape tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, red onion, olives, and parsley. Add all the vegetables to the bowl with the cooled pasta.

Make the Greek Dressing

In a mason jar or bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Seal and shake well, or whisk until fully emulsified.

Assemble the Salad

Pour about 1 cup of the Greek dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese and toss lightly to avoid breaking it up too much.

Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Gently stir before serving and enjoy chilled.

Tips for Success

Rinse the pasta with cold water so it doesn’t absorb too much dressing. Chop vegetables into evenly sized pieces for balanced bites. Add feta last to keep it creamy and intact. If making ahead, reserve a little dressing to refresh the salad before serving.

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander
• Cutting board and knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Mason jar or bowl for dressing

Recipe Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
Low-Carb Option: Use chickpea or lentil pasta.
Extra Veggies: Add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
Vegan Version: Omit feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Greek Pasta Salad alongside grilled meats, fish, or kebabs, or enjoy it as a light main dish with pita bread or hummus. It’s ideal for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, and summer dinners.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s best after chilling for 1–2 hours and can be made a day in advance.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for 3–4 days.

Will the vegetables get soggy?
Over time, yes. It tastes best the same day it’s made.

Can I use bottled Greek dressing?
You can, but homemade dressing gives the best flavor.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Rotini, penne, or shells all work well.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Pasta Salad is fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly crowd-pleasing. With crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and a bold homemade dressing, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort—exactly how great cooking should feel.

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