Greek Pasta Salad

Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines elements of Mediterranean cuisine. It is packed with colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and herbs, making it perfect for warm weather or any gathering. This salad is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, which is a bonus for busy weeknights or last-minute parties.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Greek Pasta Salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side or even a main course. Second, it’s filled with healthy ingredients like fresh veggies and whole grains. Finally, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand. Plus, it keeps well, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics!

How to Make Greek Pasta Salad

Making Greek Pasta Salad is simple and fun. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time.

Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • White balsamic vinegar
  • Garlic
  • Dried oregano
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Your favorite pasta
  • Artichoke hearts
  • Roasted red bell peppers
  • Kalamata olives
  • Cucumber
  • Red onion
  • Feta cheese
  • Fresh basil

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the cooled pasta, artichoke hearts, roasted red bell peppers, Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil to the bowl.
  4. Toss everything together until well combined.
  5. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve Greek Pasta Salad

Greek Pasta Salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. You can present it in a large bowl for a potluck or individual servings for a classy dinner. A sprinkle of extra feta cheese or fresh basil on top can add a nice finishing touch.

How to Store Greek Pasta Salad

To store your Greek Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-5 days. The flavors tend to get even better after a day, allowing the ingredients to marinate together.

Tips to Make Greek Pasta Salad

  • Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
  • Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
  • If you want some crunch, consider adding nuts like walnuts or almonds.
  • For more flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving.

Variation

You can easily customize Greek Pasta Salad by swapping ingredients. For example, try using sun-dried tomatoes instead of roasted red bell peppers or add spinach for some added greens. You can also use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! Greek Pasta Salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, it tastes better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Is Greek Pasta Salad gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that your other ingredients, like olives and artichoke hearts, are also gluten-free.

Can I add protein to the salad?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas to make it a more filling meal. Just adjust the other ingredients to balance the flavors.

Print
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Greek Pasta Salad


  • Author: krmibk110
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing dish combining Mediterranean flavors with colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and herbs, perfect for warm weather gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 8 ounces your favorite pasta
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the cooled pasta, artichoke hearts, roasted red bell peppers, Kalamata olives, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil to the bowl.
  4. Toss everything together until well combined.
  5. Adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For added crunch, consider adding nuts like walnuts or almonds. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving for enhanced flavors.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: salad, pasta, Greek, Mediterranean, feta, healthy, quick meal

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