Greek Pasta Salad

This vibrant Greek pasta salad is the perfect make-ahead dish for busy days, gatherings, or meal prep.

Packed with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing, every bite delivers a refreshing burst of Mediterranean flavor.

The combination of textures—from tender pasta to crunchy peppers and juicy tomatoes—makes it both satisfying and light.

What makes this salad especially convenient is how the flavors deepen over time.

As it chills, the pasta absorbs the herb-infused dressing, creating a bold and well-balanced dish that tastes even better the next day.

Whether served as a side or a main course, this easy recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ½ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¾ teaspoon white sugar
  • 2 ½ cups cooked elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups fresh sliced mushrooms
  • 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
  • ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ½ cup chopped green onions
  • 1 (4 ounce) can whole black olives
  • ¾ cup sliced pepperoni sausage, cut into strips (optional)

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, basil, oregano, black pepper, and sugar until well combined.
  2. Add the cooked and cooled macaroni to the bowl along with mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, feta cheese, green onions, black olives, and optional pepperoni.
  3. Toss everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
  5. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Chefs Notes

  • For a more traditional Greek flavor, substitute pepperoni with sliced cucumbers or add kalamata olives.
  • Letting the salad chill overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
  • If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving.
  • Use freshly crumbled feta for the best texture and taste.
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