Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad (Fresh, Flavorful & Ready in 15 Minutes)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rest Time 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
A quick and easy Mediterranean pasta salad made with simple ingredients and big flavor. Perfect for make-ahead meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Servings: 8
- 8 oz cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 1 large English cucumber peeled, sliced and halved
- 1 can black olives sliced
- 1 medium red onion diced
- 1 pk pasta rotini or bowties are best, but use whatever you like
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
Dressing - Homemade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon celery salt
- salt and pepper to taste
Dressing - Store bought
- 1 bottle Italian Dressing
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This helps the pasta hold its shape and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- 2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it drain well so the salad doesn’t become watery.
- 3. Add the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled before adding the vegetables.
- 4. Add the vegetables including diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and olives.
- 5. Prepare the dressing by mixing olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, garlic salt, celery salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
Or use 1 bottle of store bought Italian dressing if you are in a hurry or just prefer that. - 6. Pour the dressing evenly over the pasta and vegetables.
- 7. Toss everything well until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- 8. Add feta cheese if using and gently toss again to combine.
- 9. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and develop more flavor.
- 10. Toss again before serving and add a little extra dressing if needed. Serve chilled and enjoy.