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Fresh Greek Pasta Salad with Feta and Olives

fresh greek pasta salad - featured image

A quick and easy Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad featuring creamy feta, briny Kalamata olives, and a bright lemon-oregano dressing. Perfect for lunches, picnics, or as a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces short pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 150 grams)
  • 1/2 cup pitted and halved Kalamata olives (about 75 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one medium lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Optional: freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the shape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Shake off excess water well.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano until well blended.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss gently to coat all noodles without breaking them.
  5. Gently fold in 1 cup crumbled feta cheese and 1/2 cup halved Kalamata olives, keeping feta in distinct chunks.
  6. Taste and season with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt if needed. Toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors marry. Keep chilled and consume within 2 days.

Notes

Use firm, slightly crumbly feta for best texture. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down, preventing mushiness. Fold ingredients gently to keep feta chunks intact. Use fresh lemon juice for brightness. Salad keeps well chilled for up to 2 days; toss before serving again and add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek pasta salad, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, easy pasta salad, Mediterranean salad, quick lunch, healthy pasta salad