Cool Summer Pasta Salad with Feta
This vibrant pasta salad is perfect for hot summer days. Loaded with crunchy veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty homemade dressing, it’s a refreshing and light side dish or meal on its own. Quick to make and ideal for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep.
Ingredients List
8 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss to coat evenly.
Add crumbled feta and gently stir. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings
Serves 4–6
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 290
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 16g
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Stir before serving as dressing may settle.
Pairings/Suggestions
Pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or kebabs.
Also great with lemonade or iced tea on hot days.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect for summer lunches, BBQs, potlucks, and beach picnics.
Refreshing, colorful, and easy to make ahead.
Conclusion
This cool summer pasta salad is the ultimate warm-weather dish. With crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and a bright vinaigrette, it’s quick, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings or weekday lunches!
Cool Summer Pasta Salad with Feta
4–6
servings10
minutes10
minutes290
kcalCool, tangy, and packed with veggies—this pasta salad is your go-to dish for hot days and quick lunches.
Ingredients
8 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add crumbled feta and gently stir. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Light, refreshing, and full of Mediterranean flavor, this pasta salad is perfect for hot summer days.
It’s packed with crisp veggies, briny olives, and creamy feta tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.
Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or easy meal prep—ready in just 20 minutes!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better after chilling for a few hours.
Q2: Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely—goat cheese or mozzarella pearls work well too.
Q3: What other veggies can I add?
Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or baby spinach are great additions.
