Greek Rigatoni Pasta Salad

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Greek Rigatoni Pasta Salad

Description

Greek Rigatoni Pasta Salad is a fresh, colourful, and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish loaded with crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, briny Kalamata olives, and hearty rigatoni pasta. Tossed in a light homemade lemon-herb dressing, this salad delivers a perfect balance of flavours and textures in every bite. The ridges of the rigatoni hold the dressing beautifully, ensuring maximum flavour throughout the dish. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, meal prep, or light lunches, this pasta salad is easy to make and even better after chilling, allowing the ingredients to absorb the delicious Mediterranean flavours.

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 12 oz rigatoni pasta
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • ¾ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Servings

  • Serves: 6 people
  • Yield: Approximately 6–8 cups pasta salad

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, and prepare the olives. Place all vegetables into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the cooled rigatoni to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese

Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Mix carefully to avoid breaking up the cheese too much.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to blend and enhances the taste of the salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

  • Calories: 340
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rigatoni provides energy-rich complex carbohydrates.
  • Cucumber and tomatoes add hydration, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and beneficial plant compounds.
  • Kalamata olives contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Feta cheese provides calcium and protein.
  • Olive oil contributes healthy fats associated with Mediterranean-style eating.

Notes

  • Cook pasta just until al dente to maintain texture.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavour.
  • The salad tastes even better after several hours of chilling.
  • High-quality feta cheese enhances the overall flavour.

Tips

  1. Reserve a small amount of dressing to refresh leftovers.
  2. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  3. Soak red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness.
  4. Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers for extra colour.
  5. Garnish with extra feta and parsley before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes. It can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Q: How long does it last?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3–4 days.

Q: Can I use another pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, fusilli, or farfalle work well.

Q: Is this salad served hot or cold?

It is traditionally served chilled or at room temperature.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes. The recipe is already vegetarian as written.

Q: What protein pairs well with this salad?

Grilled chicken, salmon, shrimp, chickpeas, or tuna are excellent additions.

Conclusion

Greek Rigatoni Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavourful Mediterranean dish that combines tender pasta, crisp vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and savoury olives in a refreshing lemon-herb dressing. Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining or meal prep, this versatile salad delivers delicious taste, beautiful presentation, and wholesome nutrition in every serving. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a complete meal, it is a recipe that brings the sunny flavours of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

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