Variation
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Salad · Pasta · Dinner · Mediterranean
Greek Pasta Salad With Marinated Feta
This greek pasta salad combines al dente rotini with a vibrant herb vinaigrette, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta marinated in lemon and oregano.
Prep
15 min
Cook
10 min
Difficulty
Easy
Serves
6
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Infuse the Feta
- 1
Mix Vinaigrette
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, oregano, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
Tip: Use high-quality olive oil for the best mouthfeel.
- 2
Marinate Cheese
Place the cubed feta in a shallow dish and pour half of the dressing over it. Let sit for at least 20 minutes while you prep the rest.
How to Make Greek Pasta Salad With Marinated Feta
Total time: 25 min · Yields 6 servings
- 1
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
- 2
Prep the Vegetables
While the pasta cools, chop the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, green pepper, and olives. Place them into a very large mixing bowl.
- 3
Combine and Toss
Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable bowl. Pour in the remaining dressing and the marinated feta along with its liquid. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- 4
Chill and Serve
Add the fresh parsley and toss once more. For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the vinaigrette to soak into the pasta.
Chef's Tips
- Always rinse your pasta with cold water for cold salads to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
- Slice the red onions paper-thin or soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to take away their sharp bite.
- If the pasta looks dry after chilling, add a tiny splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
What to Serve with Greek Pasta Salad With Marinated Feta
The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.
- Serve alongside grilled lemon chicken skewers.
- Pack in jars for a portable work lunch.
- Pair with warm pita bread and hummus.
Recipe Variations
Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.
Variation
Swap rotini for gluten-free brown rice pasta.
Variation
Use smoked feta for a deeper, savory flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze.
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this greek pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is actually better if made 2 to 4 hours in advance, as the pasta absorbs the flavors of the vinaigrette.
What is the best pasta shape for greek pasta salad?
Short, textured shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle are best because their nooks and crannies hold the dressing and herbs.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta exactly to al dente and rinse it immediately with cold water to stop the cooking and remove starch.
Can I use bottled dressing instead?
You can, but the homemade red wine vinaigrette provides a specific brightness and allows you to marinate the feta properly.
Is greek pasta salad healthy?
This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced meal.
Should I use block feta or crumbled feta?
Use block feta and cut it into cubes yourself. Pre-crumbled feta often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from absorbing the marinade well.
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