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Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 13 reviews

A vibrant Mediterranean Pasta Salad combining al dente pasta with tangy feta, fresh arugula, crisp cucumbers, and savory olives, all tossed in a flavorful garlic and herb vinaigrette. Perfect for quick lunches or gatherings, this salad can be served immediately or chilled for enhanced flavors.

  • Author: Lilya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 pound pasta, cooked al dente according to package directions, cooled
  • 1 cup mixed Greek olives, pitted
  • 2 cups arugula
  • ½ cup chopped flat leaf parsley
  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced, then roughly chopped
  • 4 ounces crumbled feta
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup diced cucumbers
  • 1 cup diced salami (optional)

Dressing

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Instructions

  1. Whisk oil mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, sea salt, extra-virgin olive oil, and red wine vinegar to create a flavorful vinaigrette dressing.
  2. Combine ingredients: Add the cooled pasta, mixed Greek olives, arugula, chopped flat leaf parsley, roughly chopped red onion, crumbled feta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, and optional diced salami into the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients.
  3. Chill or serve: Serve the salad immediately for a fresh taste, or for best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This salad can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Make sure pasta is cooked al dente and cooled before combining to prevent mushiness.
  • Salami is optional and can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
  • The salad benefits from resting time to allow the dressing flavors to infuse.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Adjust salt according to the saltiness of the olives and feta cheese.