Dinner

Greek Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 16 ounces gemeli or rotini pasta; 1 English cucumber, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; ½ cup pitted kalamata olives; 6 ounces feta cheese, cubed; ½ cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper

ByHarry Bern February 1, 2026February 1, 2026

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Introduction

This vibrant Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish perfect for warm days or as a flavorful side. Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty homemade dressing, it’s both easy to make and satisfying.

A close-up view of a fresh pasta salad in a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface with a blue striped cloth nearby. The salad shows three main layers: the base layer has light golden twisted rotini pasta with a smooth, slightly shiny texture; the middle layer includes slices of bright green cucumber, halved red cherry tomatoes, and cubes of red bell pepper, all fresh and vivid; the top layer consists of creamy white feta cheese chunks and dark purple Kalamata olives, scattered evenly. Thin slices of purple onion add a slight texture and color contrast mixed throughout the layers. The ingredients appear well-coated with a light dressing that adds a subtle gloss. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces gemeli or rotini pasta
1 English cucumber, sliced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup pitted kalamata olives
6 ounces feta cheese, cubed
½ cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cracked pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions. Once done, drain and transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add the cucumber, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese to the bowl with the pasta. Toss gently to combine.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and cracked pepper until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to evenly coat all ingredients.
Step 5: Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Tips & Variations

For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving.
Substitute kalamata olives with green olives for a milder flavor.
Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a brighter herbal note.
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn this salad into a heartier meal.

Storage

Store the Greek pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes and give it a quick toss. Avoid freezing, as the fresh vegetables and feta may lose their texture.