What ingredients are in Greek pasta salad?

A traditional Greek pasta salad typically includes: Cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie) Cherry tomatoes Cucumber Red onion Kalamata olives Crumbled feta cheese Fresh parsley or oregano Olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing

What is the difference between a Greek and Mediterranean salad?

Greek salad is a specific type of Mediterranean salad focused on ingredients like feta, olives, cucumber, and tomato, all tied together with oregano and a red wine vinaigrette. In contrast, a Mediterranean salad is a broader category that can include: Chickpeas, lentils, or couscous Roasted veggies or artichokes Multiple cheese options Dressings ranging from balsamic to lemon tahini

What are the five mistakes to avoid pasta salad?

Here are the five biggest missteps: Overcooking pasta – Always go for al dente. Skipping the rinse – Rinse to cool and remove starch. Adding dressing too late – Toss pasta with some dressing while still warm. Undersalting the pasta water – Salt the water well to build foundational flavor. Using bland ingredients – Fresh herbs, tangy feta, and briny olives are must-haves.

Should I rinse pasta for cold pasta salad?

Yes, absolutely. Rinsing cooked pasta under cold water halts the cooking process immediately and removes surface starch that can cause clumping. For cold dishes like Greek pasta salad, this step keeps the texture light and fresh.

Greek Pasta Salad – The Best Fresh & Easy Recipe (2025)

Name: Greek Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced; 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A refreshing and vibrant pasta salad packed with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

You can add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein. Best served cold and fresh.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: greek pasta salad, summer salad, feta, vegetarian, easy pasta recipe