Introduction
Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing, vibrant, and wholesome dish that combines the beloved flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the heartiness of pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, summer gatherings, or as a make-ahead lunch that stays fresh and flavorful.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
The dish is inspired by the classic Greek salad (Horiatiki), which traditionally features fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese dressed simply with olive oil, oregano, and lemon. Over time, pasta was introduced to create a more filling meal while retaining the authentic Greek flavors. Greek cuisine celebrates freshness, balance, and simplicity, and this pasta salad embodies those principles, making it a popular dish across cultures for potlucks, picnics, and family meals.
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Ingredients Quantity (serves 4–6)
12 oz (340 g) rotini or penne pasta, cooked al dente
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Optional Additions
Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
Artichoke hearts for extra tang
Sun-dried tomatoes for deeper flavor
Spinach or arugula for freshness
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness
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Tips for Success
1. Don’t overcook pasta – keep it slightly firm for the best texture.
2. Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
3. Use high-quality olive oil and feta cheese for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
4. Chill before serving (if possible) to let flavors meld.
5. Balance the dressing – taste and adjust vinegar, salt, and oregano to preference.
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Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, olives, and parsley.
3. Add the cooled pasta and toss gently.
4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and mix well.
6. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and toss lightly.
7. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving, or serve immediately at room temperature.
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Description
This Greek Pasta Salad is colorful, crunchy, tangy, and savory, with every bite delivering the perfect balance of pasta’s comfort and the refreshing brightness of Mediterranean vegetables. The olives and feta lend a salty richness, while the oregano and olive oil dressing tie everything together beautifully.
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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup)
Calories: ~320
Protein: 9 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 480 mg
(Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion size)
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Conclusion and Recommendation
This Easy 30-Minute Greek Pasta Salad is not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. It’s an ideal dish for meal prep, summer BBQs, or a satisfying vegetarian main. Pair it with grilled meats, pita bread, or enjoy it on its own for a refreshing, nutrient-packed meal.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
With wholesome vegetables, protein-rich feta, heart-healthy olive oil, and fiber-rich pasta, this salad proves that in
dulgence can also be nourishing. It’s a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavors—balancing health, freshness, and satisfaction in every forkful.
