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spaghetti pasta salad recipe

Mediterranean Spaghetti Pasta Salad

A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad featuring spaghetti with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and herbs in a light lemon dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Grain & Pasta Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 275

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad Base
  • 12 oz spaghetti pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cucumber diced
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup black olives sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves torn
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Shake well to remove excess water and toss with a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and black olives.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Add optional garlic, herbs, or Dijon mustard if desired.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Add the torn basil leaves just before serving and toss once more. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For meal prep, store the dressing separately and add just before serving.
  • This pasta salad will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
  • Allow refrigerated pasta salad to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
  • Breaking the spaghetti into thirds before cooking makes it easier to serve and eat.