Name: Greek Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 box Penne Pasta (16-oz box); ⅔ cup Olive Oil; ¼ cup Lemon Juice; ½ cup Mayonnaise; 3 Tbsp Greek Seasoning; ¾ cup Grape Tomatoes (cut into halves); 1½ cups Feta Cheese (crumbled); ¼ cup Fresh Basil (chopped)

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The moment summer rolls around, I find myself dreaming of a refreshing bowl of Greek Pasta Salad. There’s something about the bright colors and vibrant flavors that instantly transports me to sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches. This dish is perfect for those hot days when you want something light yet satisfying. I remember the first time I made it for a family picnic. As I tossed together the ingredients, the enticing aroma of olive oil and lemon juice filled the kitchen. Everyone could hardly wait to dig in!

This Greek Pasta Salad has become a staple at all our gatherings. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a simple weekday lunch, it never fails to impress. The combination of penne pasta, feta cheese, and grape tomatoes creates a delightful medley of textures and flavors. It’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

So, if you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of summer and is sure to please a crowd, then this Greek Pasta Salad is your answer. I often find myself making it on repeat, not just for the flavor, but for the smiles it brings to my loved ones’ faces.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
270 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk

Why This Greek Pasta Salad Is So Good

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Greek Pasta Salad. Here are just a few:

1. Bursting with Flavor

The combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and Greek seasoning creates a vibrant dressing that perfectly compliments the pasta and feta cheese. You’ll be amazed at how each bite brings a delightful burst of flavor. It’s like having a taste of Greece right in your kitchen!

2. Perfect for Meal Prep

This salad is a game changer for meal prep. You can whip it up in no time and store it in the fridge, ready to be enjoyed throughout the week. The flavors only get better as it sits, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when you need something quick yet delicious.

3. Customizable

One of the best things about this Greek Pasta Salad is how versatile it is. Feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables or add some protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. You can easily make it your own!

4. Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer picnic, a potluck, or just a casual dinner at home, this salad is suitable for any gathering. It’s light enough for a hot day but satisfying enough to be served as a side dish or main course.

5. Healthier Choice

With fresh ingredients like tomatoes, basil, and olive oil, this salad is packed with nutrients. It’s a healthier option compared to heavier pasta dishes that may leave you feeling sluggish.

6. Eye-Catching Presentation

Let’s not forget how visually appealing this salad is. Those vibrant colors from the tomatoes, fresh basil, and feta cheese make it a stunning addition to any table. It’s sure to catch the eye of your guests!

Everything You Need for Greek Pasta Salad

When it comes to making a delicious Greek Pasta Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role in delivering that authentic Mediterranean flavor. Each component complements the others perfectly, creating a salad that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. The key players in this dish are the penne pasta, feta cheese, and fresh vegetables, all coming together to make a harmonious blend of taste and texture.

Penne Pasta: The base of this salad, penne pasta holds the dressing well and adds a satisfying bite. Use a good quality pasta for the best results.
Olive Oil: A good extra virgin olive oil is essential for the dressing, providing richness and flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the salad beautifully.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the dressing, making it smooth and enjoyable.
Greek Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to this salad. It’s what makes the flavors pop!
Grape Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these tomatoes add freshness and color to the dish.
Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta cheese is a must-have in this salad. It adds a delightful saltiness.
Fresh Basil: This herb enhances the salad with its aromatic flavor and bright green color.

Recipe Directions for Greek Pasta Salad

Making this Greek Pasta Salad is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish ready in no time. Let’s dive right into the cooking process!

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. You want it firm enough to hold its shape. Once cooked, drain it in a colander and run cold water over it to stop the cooking process. This helps to cool it down and prevent it from becoming mushy.
While the pasta is cooling, prepare the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and Greek seasoning. The key here is to blend until smooth and well combined. This dressing will coat the pasta beautifully!
Now it’s time to combine everything. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss it gently to ensure every piece is coated. The pasta should absorb all that delicious flavor.
Next, fold in the grape tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh basil. Be careful not to break the feta too much; you want those lovely chunks to remain intact for added texture.
Once everything is well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least eight hours. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier!
When ready to serve, give the salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing. This step is crucial as some ingredients may settle at the bottom.
Transfer the Greek Pasta Salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. It looks beautiful garnished with extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top.
Enjoy this refreshing salad as a standalone meal or as a delightful side dish with your favorite entrees. It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or seafood for a complete Mediterranean experience!
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. This salad keeps well for up to three to four days, so you can enjoy it for lunch throughout the week!

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling Time: Make sure to allow at least eight hours for the salad to chill in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors to develop and enhance the overall taste.
Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta until al dente to avoid a mushy texture. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly as it cools.
Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The feta cheese and olive oil should ideally be of good quality to make a noticeable difference.
Salad Serving: This salad is best served cold, so plan to make it ahead of time. It’s perfect for potlucks or summer gatherings.

Recipe Variations about Greek Pasta Salad

There are countless ways to make this Greek Pasta Salad your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors intensify, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables can change. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or red onions for added crunch and flavor.
Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh basil, try using dill or parsley for a different herbaceous note.
Grain Alternative: For a gluten-free option, substitute the penne pasta with quinoa or brown rice. Both will provide a nutty flavor and a wholesome base.

Perfect Matches for Greek Pasta Salad

Wondering how to serve your Greek Pasta Salad? Here are some fantastic ideas:

As a Side Dish: This salad makes the perfect side for barbecued chicken, grilled fish, or lamb. Its lightness complements heavier mains beautifully.
For Lunch: Enjoy it as a refreshing lunch option. Pair it with some crusty bread or pita for a more filling meal.
Picnic Essential: Take it along for picnics or outdoor gatherings. It’s easy to transport and requires no reheating!
Gorgeous Presentation: Serve it in a large glass bowl to highlight the colorful ingredients. It’s a beautiful centerpiece for any table.
Seasonal Pairing: This salad is especially delightful during the summer months when fresh produce is at its peak. Enjoy it with seasonal fruits for dessert.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad can last for up to four days!

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making Greek Pasta Salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s best to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least eight hours before serving. This gives the dressing and ingredients a chance to combine, making it even tastier. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may settle.

While I love using penne pasta for this recipe, you can actually use any shape of pasta that you prefer. Bowtie, fusilli, or even rotini can work wonderfully. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked until al dente, so it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

Greek Pasta Salad is great for meal prep, as it lasts in the refrigerator for about three to four days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it a delicious option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Definitely! This Greek Pasta Salad is highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives. If you want to make it more filling, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Conclusion

In summary, Greek Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. It’s the perfect addition to any summer gathering, picnic, or even a casual dinner with friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table. With its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So why wait? Whip it up today and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean!