Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Herbs

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (farfalle or fusilli); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipe Collection

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Herbs because it perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. This dish combines al dente pasta with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a zesty dressing that comes together in no time. Whether it’s a refreshing side dish for a barbecue or a light lunch on its own, every bite bursts with deliciousness. The best part is that it’s so easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile recipe that I turn to again and again.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:33:36.038Z

When I first tried Mediterranean Pasta Salad, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such bold flavors. The trick lies in using fresh herbs like basil and parsley, which elevate the dish and make it incredibly aromatic. Each time I make it, I like to experiment with the vegetables and dressings, providing endless possibilities.

I've also learned that letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully. It’s great for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day. Trust me, you'll find yourself making this dish over and over again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that transport you to the Mediterranean coast
Easy to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables
Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Pasta Salad contributes to its overall flavor profile and texture. The al dente pasta provides a hearty base that holds up well to the robust flavors of the other ingredients. The addition of crunchy vegetables like cucumber and bell pepper not only adds freshness but also a satisfying bite. Kalamata olives bring a briny depth that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, enhancing the overall taste balance.

Fresh herbs are essential in this salad, as they infuse it with bright, aromatic qualities. Both parsley and basil add layers of flavor that transport you to the Mediterranean. For those who may not have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be used, but I recommend using them sparingly as their flavors are more concentrated. Always opt for fresh when possible for the best outcome.

Preparation Tips for Success

When cooking the pasta, be sure to salt the water generously; it should taste like the sea. Cooking the pasta until al dente is crucial, as it will continue to absorb flavors while it chills. To achieve the perfect al dente texture, start checking the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. Drain and rinse it promptly under cold water to halt the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.

For the vegetables, uniform cutting is key to achieving a harmonious bite in every forkful. Aim for similar sizes—about 1/2-inch pieces—to ensure even mixing and presentation. If you're prepping ahead of time, chop the vegetables and store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Just remember to add the feta and dressing right before serving to maintain their textures.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Mediterranean Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta (farfalle or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, red onion, parsley, and basil.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine All Ingredients

Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together gently. Finally, add the feta cheese and mix lightly to combine.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean Pasta Salad either cold or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For added protein, feel free to include grilled chicken or chickpeas. Additionally, using whole grain pasta can increase the nutritional value of this dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is excellent for meal prep. After assembling, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a great option for a Sunday meal that can last throughout the week. Just be sure to keep the feta cheese separate until serving to prevent it from softening too much.

If you want to make this dish even further in advance, consider preparing the pasta and dressing separately. Cook the pasta and let it cool, then mix it with your vegetables and dressing just before you're ready to serve. This technique preserves the freshness of the vegetables and keeps the pasta from absorbing too much dressing.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

Feel free to customize this Mediterranean Pasta Salad to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, replace the regular pasta with a gluten-free variety such as quinoa pasta or chickpea pasta. You can also switch up the cheese—try goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version. Adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas can turn this salad into a full meal.

For added zing, consider incorporating ingredients like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity. Each addition will create a different flavor profile while still aligning with the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean cuisine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it's great for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like artichokes, zucchini, or even some roasted red peppers for extra flavor.

→ Is this pasta salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs will provide a much brighter flavor.