Mediterranean Olive Oil Feta Pasta

A vibrant, refreshing pasta salad featuring tangy feta, briny olives, ripe tomatoes, and crisp vegetables—all tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing. The perfect light Mediterranean-inspired plate for warm weeknight dinners.

This Mediterranean olive oil and feta pasta salad quickly became a summer favorite in my household thanks to its bright flavors and simple preparation.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle), Salt for boiling water
• Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 medium cucumber diced, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1/2 red bell pepper diced
• Cheese & Olives: 150 g (5 oz) feta cheese crumbled, 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
• Dressing: 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, 1 tbsp fresh basil sliced (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl combine cherry tomatoes cucumber red onion and red bell pepper.

Step 3:

Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the vegetables.

Step 4:

In a small bowl or jar whisk together olive oil lemon juice oregano garlic salt and pepper to make the dressing.

Step 5:

Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to combine.

Step 6:

Add the crumbled feta cheese Kalamata olives parsley and basil (if using). Toss lightly to distribute.

Step 7:

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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My family loves gathering around to enjoy this fresh salad, especially on warm evenings, making every meal feel special and vibrant.

Notes

For extra flavor add roasted red peppers sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts. Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. Excellent with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. Pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry rosé.

Required Tools

Large pot Colander Large mixing bowl Small bowl or jar (for dressing) Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (feta cheese) Wheat (pasta). For gluten-free Use certified gluten-free pasta. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.

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This pasta salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures ideal for quick meals or entertaining guests.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing well and provide a great texture contrast with the veggies and cheese.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, preparing it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld. Keep chilled and toss gently before serving.

→ How can I make the dressing more flavorful?

Add fresh garlic and a sprinkle of dried oregano to the olive oil and lemon juice base for a zesty, aromatic dressing.

→ Is it possible to substitute feta cheese?

Yes, goat cheese or paneer can be used for a similar creamy texture with unique flavors.

→ What herbs enhance the freshness of this salad?

Fresh parsley and basil add bright, herbal notes that complement the tangy cheese and briny olives beautifully.

→ Can this dish accommodate dietary restrictions?

Use certified gluten-free pasta for gluten intolerance and consider plant-based cheese alternatives for dairy-free options.