When it comes to versatile dishes that are perfect for any occasion, this Greek Pasta Salad is a star! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, meal-prepping for the week, or simply looking for a fresh and easy side dish, this recipe has you covered. Packed with vibrant veggies, tangy Greek flavors, and a satisfying pasta base, it’s sure to be a hit.
Why You Will Love This Greek Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is not just delicious—it’s a time-saver, too! Using store-bought Greek salad dressing and marinated artichoke hearts means you get bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese makes every bite a delight.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here’s what makes this dish so irresistible:
- Bowtie pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that delicious dressing.
- Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Black olives: For a salty, savory kick.
- Cherry or grape tomatoes: Bring a burst of sweetness and color.
- Marinated artichoke hearts: Packed with flavor and texture.
- Purple onion: A subtle sharpness to balance the flavors.
- Greek salad dressing: I love using Ken’s Steakhouse brand, but feel free to use your favorite.
- Feta cheese: Creamy, tangy, and utterly essential!
- Salt and pepper: To season everything to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Greek Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and let it cool slightly.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the cucumber, black olives, tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and onion.
- Dress it up: Pour in the Greek salad dressing and mix everything until well coated.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle in feta cheese to taste, or wait until just before serving if you’re chilling the salad.
- Season and chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Tips For Success
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
- Customize it: Don’t have bowtie pasta? Rotini or penne work great too. Add extras like roasted red peppers, spinach, or grilled chicken to make it your own.
- Serving idea: Pair this salad with grilled meats, crusty bread, or even a glass of chilled white wine for a complete meal.
Why Greek Pasta Salad is Perfect For Any Occasion
This Greek Pasta Salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!
Let me know how yours turns out, and feel free to share your own twists on this classic dish in the comments. Happy cooking! 🍴
Greek Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz Bowtie Pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 Large Cucumber, peeled and sliced
- 1 Can of Sliced Black Olives
- 1 Pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes
- 1 12-14 oz Jar of Marinated Artichoke Hearts, chopped roughly
- ½ Small Purple Onion, diced
- 8-10 oz Greek Salad Dressing I use Ken's Steakhouse Brand
- Feta Cheese to taste
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add all other ingredients except cheese and mix.
- You can add cheese now or chill salad and add before serving.
This sounds amazing!
I must try a smaller version!!
I loved this salad 5 star
Excited to try this one!
Looks good. I’ll be saving this recipe and making it sometime. Awesome!
That looks delicious. I will certainly make once I have ingredients
Kelly, you pretty much have to make your own vanilla sugar. You take your vanilla bean, scrape out your seeds, and you just put the pod into a container of sugar. In a little time, maybe 24 hours, you have vanilla sugar. You can also buy vanilla bean paste and vanilla bean powder
I Like that I Can Customize this to my Dietary Needs (Allergies)
Yummy I put cooked pieces of chicken in mine
I also make this but add cooked chicken to it.
Yum I’m going to make this.
I would maybe add some pepperoni slices, yummy!!
Love your recipe, just needs pepperoni for mine 😊
Very good. My picky 3 year old granddaughter even liked it.