Greek Pasta Salad with Feta & Veggies

There’s something magical about a big bowl of Greek Pasta Salad. It’s colorful, refreshing, and makes any meal feel a little more cheerful. I first started making this dish when I wanted a pasta recipe that felt light but still filling — and my family loved it instantly. The tangy feta, briny olives, and crunchy cucumbers pair so well with the tender pasta. If you love pasta recipes, this one’s a keeper. It also makes a great companion dish to cozy meals like Instant Pot Vegetable Soup.

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What You’ll Need

When I make this salad, I like to use the freshest vegetables I can find — they really brighten the flavors. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Rotini pasta – I love using whole wheat or tri-color for extra texture.
• Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and juicy, halved.
• Cucumber – Adds crunch; I like English cucumbers for fewer seeds.
• Red onion – Thinly sliced for a little bite.
• Bell pepper – Any color, but red adds a nice sweetness.
• Kalamata olives – Salty and briny, a classic Greek touch.
• Feta cheese – Creamy, tangy, and crumbly.
• Fresh parsley – Brings brightness.
• Olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt & pepper – For the dressing.

I keep this simple, but you can add extra veggies if you’d like. This salad pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like Slow Cooker Pork Carnitas.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Greek Pasta Salad

Whenever I make this salad, I like to prepare everything ahead and toss it just before serving so the flavors stay fresh. It’s quick and easy — here’s how:

Step 1 — Cook the pasta

Boil rotini until just al dente. Overcooked pasta can get mushy once it soaks up the dressing. I always rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and keep it firm.

Step 2 — Chop the veggies

Slice cucumbers, halve tomatoes, dice bell peppers, and thinly slice onion. I try to keep pieces bite-sized so every forkful has a good mix.

Step 3 — Make the dressing

Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Sometimes I add a pinch of red chili flakes for extra zing.

Step 4 — Combine pasta and veggies

Toss the cooled pasta with all the chopped vegetables. This is where the salad starts looking vibrant and inviting.

Step 5 — Add feta and olives

Crumble feta cheese and scatter in olives. I wait until the end so the feta doesn’t break down too much.

Step 6 — Toss and chill

Pour over the dressing, toss gently, and chill for 30 minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors mingle together. Perfect alongside Pressure Cooker Lentil Soup.

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use penne or farfalle if you don’t have rotini.
• Add grilled chicken to make it a main meal.
• Swap feta with goat cheese for a creamier flavor.
• Use fresh dill or mint for a fun twist.
• Try roasted red peppers instead of fresh.
• Make it gluten-free with chickpea or lentil pasta.
• Double the dressing if serving the next day — pasta tends to soak it up.
• Keep feta separate if prepping ahead, then add just before serving.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

I love serving this Greek Pasta Salad as a side at BBQs or potlucks — it’s always one of the first bowls to empty. It also makes a great lunchbox meal.

Try these variations:

• Add grilled shrimp for a summery twist.
• Toss in spinach for extra greens.
• Stir in artichoke hearts for more Mediterranean flavor.
• Add sun-dried tomatoes for tanginess.
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
• Serve with warm pita bread on the side.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Overcooking pasta – Stick to al dente; rinse to stop cooking.
• Overdressing early – The pasta soaks it up, leaving salad dry. Add extra dressing before serving.
• Skipping the chill time – Even 20 minutes makes the flavors blend better.
• Cutting veggies too big – Smaller pieces mean better balance in every bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

• Creamy Mushroom Pasta – cozy and comforting.
• Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake – family favorite and hearty.
• Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe – another fresh summer salad to try.

And don’t forget to check out more pasta recipes for easy, delicious ideas.