Greek Rigatoni Pasta Salad
Description
Greek Rigatoni Pasta Salad is a colorful Mediterranean-style dish that balances bold flavors and fresh textures. The rigatoni holds the dressing beautifully, while cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta bring brightness and richness. Tossed in a lemon-oregano vinaigrette, this salad is light yet satisfying and works well as a side or a main meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¾ cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta
Boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Step 2: Prepare Vegetables
Chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and parsley.
Step 3: Make Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine
In a large bowl, mix pasta, vegetables, olives, and feta cheese.
Step 5: Add Dressing
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
Step 6: Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Rigatoni works well because its ridges hold dressing nicely.
- Fresh vegetables give the best crunch and flavor.
- Letting the salad rest improves taste as flavors blend.
- You can serve it immediately, but chilling enhances it.
Tips
- Add a splash of pasta water to loosen dressing if needed.
- Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Don’t overcook pasta—al dente texture is best.
- Toss gently to keep feta from breaking too much.
Servings
- Serves: 6–8 people
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
Benefits Rich in Healthy Fats
Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Good Source of Antioxidants
Vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers support overall health.
Balanced Meal Option
Contains carbs, fats, and protein for sustained energy.
Supports Digestion
Fiber from vegetables and pasta aids digestion.
Great for Meal Prep
Tastes even better after resting in the fridge.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer
Not recommended due to texture changes in vegetables.
Reheating
Best served cold or at room temperature.
Q&A
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or rotini all work well.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.
What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or chickpeas are great additions.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply skip feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Why does my salad taste dry later?
Pasta absorbs dressing—add a little extra olive oil before serving.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep and parties.
What makes it “Greek-style”?
The use of feta, olives, oregano, olive oil, and lemon dressing.