Description
Bright, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean flavor, this quick and easy pasta salad is your go-to for any occasion. Whether you need a light lunch, a party side, or a make-ahead dinner idea, this colorful bowl hits every mark. Filled with crunchy vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty Italian dressing, it’s a healthy snack or meal prep winner—perfect for warm weather food ideas and beyond.
Ingredients
1 pound rotini pasta
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved
3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup salami, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3/4 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rotini pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
2. While pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: halve the tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice red onion, and chop parsley. If using, chop the salami into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, feta, olives, and salami.
4. Pour in the Italian dressing and toss until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the process and avoid over-softening.
For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes so the dressing absorbs.
Add-ins like bell peppers, mozzarella pearls, or artichoke hearts can bring more color and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg