How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad Perfect for Summer

Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean Pasta Salad? This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Perfect for quick family dinners or as a side for your summer barbecues, this easy pasta recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious Mediterranean masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a colorful and healthy option packed with fresh vegetables.
• Perfect for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Ready in just 30 minutes, making it one of the best 30-minute meals!
• Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side.
• Great for summer gatherings, potlucks, or picnics.

Ingredients

To whip up this Mediterranean Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 ounces dry pasta (farfalle recommended)
• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 2/3 cup sliced kalamata olives
• ½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon honey (or desired sweetener)
• 2 small garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Pasta Salad:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the olives and red onion thinly.
3. Make the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
4. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to elevate your Mediterranean Pasta Salad:

• Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or artichokes for extra flavor.
• For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.
• If you love creamy textures, try adding a dollop of creamy garlic pasta sauce for a twist!
• Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; a little extra salt or lemon juice can make a big difference.

How to Serve

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner.
• Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
• It’s also a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks.
• For a fun twist, serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!

Make Ahead and Storage

This salad is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If making ahead, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the pasta’s texture.
• This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

For more delicious recipes, check out my Mediterranean Pasta Salad or try a hearty Beef Stir Fry for a quick weeknight dinner idea. If you’re in the mood for something comforting, don’t miss my Cattle Drive Casserole. Enjoy your summer with this delightful Mediterranean Pasta Salad, and happy cooking!