Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

A Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of zesty, fresh, and savory flavors that transport your taste buds to the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean. Bursting with vibrant vegetables, tender pasta, tangy feta cheese, and a bright lemon herb dressing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for picnics, barbecues, or simple family dinners. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect as a side dish or a light, satisfying main course.

In this article, we’ll guide you through making this refreshing pasta salad with tips on customization, storage, and pairing it with other dishes for a complete Mediterranean feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Flavorful: A tangy lemon herb dressing perfectly complements the crisp vegetables and pasta.
2. Easy to Prepare: This pasta salad comes together in less than 30 minutes.
3. Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or as a wholesome dinner.
4. Customizable: You can easily add or substitute ingredients to match your preferences or dietary needs.

Instructions for Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and Cool: Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent wilting the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and parsley. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Prep the Olives and Cheese: Halve the Kalamata olives and crumble the feta cheese. Add these to the vegetable mixture.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Herb Dressing

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), and dried oregano.
2. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, and stir in any fresh herbs like dill, basil, or mint for an extra herbaceous flavor.
3. Shake It Up: If using a jar, seal the lid tightly and shake vigorously to combine.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.
2. Pour the Dressing: Drizzle the lemon herb dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or additional herbs as needed.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Serve: Garnish with extra feta, parsley, or lemon zest before serving.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe, fresh vegetables and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
2. Choose the Right Pasta: Short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini or penne hold the dressing and mix-ins well.
3. Cool the Pasta Completely: Rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it down and remove excess starch, which can make the salad sticky.
4. Customize Your Salad: Add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal. You can also mix in roasted vegetables for added depth of flavor.
5. Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining.

Variations

1. Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, turkey, or shrimp to make this salad a complete meal.
2. Vegan-Friendly: Skip the feta cheese and add cubed avocado or marinated tofu for creaminess.
3. Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
4. Extra Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or arugula for added nutrients and texture.

Pairing Suggestions

This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or fish for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
• Flatbreads: Pair with warm pita bread or focaccia for a complete meal.
• Soups: Enjoy with a light soup like lentil or tomato for a balanced, hearty dinner.

Conclusion

This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean ingredients in one bowl. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a light, satisfying dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try, and bring the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean to your table!

Yield: 6

Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

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A Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of zesty, fresh, and savory flavors that transport your taste buds to the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean. Bursting with vibrant vegetables, tender pasta, tangy feta cheese, and a bright lemon herb dressing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for picnics, barbecues, or simple family dinners. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also incredibly versatile—perfect as a side dish or a light, satisfying main course.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Pasta Salad:
• 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/3 cup red onion, finely sliced
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Lemon Herb Dressing:

1. In a small mixing bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, and dill.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust lemon juice or olive oil for your preferred balance of acidity and richness.

3. Assemble the Pasta Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil (if using).
2. Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve:

1. Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Before serving, give it a quick toss and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
• Veggie Options: Try adding roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or spinach for extra Mediterranean flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.