Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Herbs

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/3 cup olive oil; 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I love making this Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Herbs because it’s the perfect blend of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. Every bite showcases the beauty of Mediterranean cuisine, with fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tangy olives coming together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether I’m serving it as a side at a barbecue or as a light lunch, this pasta salad never fails to impress. It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:53:35.934Z

I stumbled upon this Mediterranean Pasta Salad recipe during my summer travels, where flavors burst at every meal. It was an instant favorite, showcasing simple yet vibrant ingredients that captured the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. I began experimenting at home, tweaking it to include my favorite herbs and seasonal vegetables.

The method is surprisingly straightforward and forgiving. I learned that letting the salad chill for a while allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious taste. This has become a cherished go-to dish in my repertoire!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful combination of fresh vegetables and herbs
Versatile enough to serve as a side or a main dish
Perfect for meal prep and outdoor gatherings

Perfect Pasta Cooking Tips

Cooking the pasta to perfection is crucial in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Herbs. Aim for al dente texture, which means it should be firm to the bite. Typically, this takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Be sure to taste a piece before draining. After cooking, rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and helps to keep the pasta from becoming mushy. This step also cools it down quickly, making it ready to mix with the fresh ingredients.

Using the right type of pasta also enhances the dish. I recommend penne or fusilli; their shapes hold on to the flavorful dressing and bits of vegetables effectively. If gluten-free pasta is needed, it can easily be substituted without compromising the overall taste. Just ensure you pay close attention to the cooking instructions provided on the package, as gluten-free pasta often cooks faster than regular options.

Flavorful Dressings Make All the Difference

The dressing is where the magic happens in this salad. A homemade dressing not only elevates the dish but also allows you to control the flavors. The balance of olive oil and red wine vinegar creates a rich and tangy contrast that complements the fresh tomatoes and creamy feta. For a zesty variation, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest or a splash of fresh lemon juice for additional brightness.

When whisking the dressing, ensure you do it long enough to emulsify, which means the oil and vinegar will combine smoothly rather than separate. This process typically takes about 30 seconds, and you’ll know it’s ready when it appears slightly thicker and glossy. If you prefer a creamier dressing, adding a tablespoon of plain yogurt can be a delightful alternative.

Storage and Serving Tips

This pasta salad is not only quick to prepare but also excellent for meal prep. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only get better as they meld over time, making it a scrumptious option for lunch the next day or as a side for dinner. However, if you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until serving to maintain the freshness of the ingredients.

For serving, I love presenting the salad on a large platter, garnished with extra herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for visual appeal. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed solo with some crusty bread. You can also customize it with additional ingredients like artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes to make it your own.

Ingredients

Gather fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of your salad.

Salad Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Mediterranean Pasta Salad!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and herbs.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and herbs.

Dress and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of lemon juice for freshness.

Ingredient Modifications

Customization is one of the best aspects of this Mediterranean Pasta Salad. If you're looking to adapt the recipe for dietary preferences, consider swapping out the feta for a dairy-free cheese or omitting it entirely for a vegan option. Likewise, for a hearty addition, chickpeas or cannellini beans can be included for protein, making it a more substantial meal while keeping it plant-based.

If you’re not a fan of olives, feel free to replace them with capers or even roasted red peppers for a similar briny kick. Each alternative will add a unique twist to the flavor profile, ensuring your salad remains exciting. Just be mindful that some substitutions may alter the overall saltiness of the dish, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Timing the Steps

When preparing this salad, timing is crucial for a perfect end result. Start boiling your water for the pasta first; it will take about 10-15 minutes to come to a boil. Use this time to chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing. You can easily cut your total prep time down to about 30 minutes if you efficiently manage these tasks simultaneously.

After combining all ingredients, letting the salad chill is essential. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge; however, if you have the time, letting it sit for an hour or two will enhance the flavor even further. Don't forget to give it a good toss before serving to re-incorporate any dressing that settles at the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. While it's perfect as a standalone dish, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying meal. It's also great served alongside BBQ dishes, enhancing the flavors of grilled meats without overpowering them. You can even serve it on a bed of greens for a refreshing twist.

For bringing this dish to gatherings, consider using a mason jar method for individual servings. Layer the ingredients, starting with the dressing at the bottom, to keep everything fresh until you're ready to eat. Just shake it up before serving, and you’ll have a colorful, portable meal that is sure to impress. Perfect for picnics or potlucks!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ How can I add protein to this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions for added protein.

→ Is it okay to use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work well in this salad.