Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Packed with bold flavor, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish, from the peppery bite of fresh arugula to the salty goodness of Kalamata olives and creamy feta cheese.

Balanced by tender penne pasta, the strong flavors come together harmoniously, making this salad anything but ordinary. I love making Recipes for Pasta Salad for family gatherings!

Perfect as a filling main course or a flavorful side to grilled chicken or sautéed fish, it’s a satisfying, hearty dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

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What is Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the ingredients commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine.

It typically includes pasta, such as penne or rotini, combined with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers and red onions, along with Mediterranean staples like Kalamata olives, feta cheese and fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.

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The salad is often tossed in a light vinaigrette, usually lemon or balsamic-based, and can be served chilled or at room temperature.

It’s a refreshing, hearty dish that works well as a side or a main course, perfect for warm-weather meals or potlucks.

Ingredients for Pasta Salad

For the full ingredient measurements, scroll on down to the Mediterranean pasta salad recipe card.

Lemon Vinaigrette Ingredients:

• ½ c.extra virgin olive oil
• 2 T. white balsamic vinegar
• 2 T. fresh lemon juice
• 1 t. fresh lemon zest, preferably organic
• 1 large clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 T. Dijon mustard
• 1-2 T. honey, preferably local
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Remaining Ingredients:

• 1 16-oz. box penne pasta 
• 2 T. extra virgin olive oil
• 2-3 large cloves garlic, mince
• 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 2 c. fresh arugula
• 12-15 large fresh basil leaves, sliced thin
• 1/3 c. Kalamata olives, chopped
• 3 T. Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 3 oz. Feta cheese, roughly chopped
• Garnish: additional arugula leaves, sprigs of fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse, and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, make the vinaigrette by combining all ingredients in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until emulsified and set aside (or make in advance and refrigerate until ready to use).

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is lightly golden.

Add the tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes until just warmed through. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh arugula. Set aside.

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In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato and arugula mixture with fresh basil and Kalamata olives. Add the warm penne pasta, feta, and Parmesan. Season with salt and black pepper, then drizzle with 3 tablespoons of the lemon vinaigrette. Toss until well mixed.

Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with extra arugula, basil sprigs, and freshly grated Parmesan. Serve immediately with the remaining vinaigrette on the side. Enjoy!

More Mediterranean Recipes

Discover a collection of delightful Mediterranean recipes that celebrate fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean region!

• Mediterranean Linguine with Basil and Tomatoes
• Mediterranean Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
• Mediterranean Tuna Salad
• Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables
• Mediterranean Orzo Salad
• Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp
• Zucchini Fritter Mediterranean Rice Bowls
• Mediterranean Turkey Casserole

For even more great meals, dive into these Italian Pasta Recipes with Fresh Ingredients!