Greek Pasta Salad for Summer BBQs & Potlucks

IIf you’re looking for an easy summer pasta salad that’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for gatherings, this Greek pasta salad is a must-try.

Made with tender pasta, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and a simple homemade dressing, this refreshing salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, church potlucks, and summer cookouts.

This colorful pasta salad is packed with classic Mediterranean flavors and comes together quickly with simple ingredients.

The combination of creamy feta cheese, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing makes every bite fresh and satisfying.

Greek pasta salad is also a great make-ahead recipe because the flavors blend together beautifully after chilling in the refrigerator.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light lunch, it’s always a crowd favorite.

Looking for more easy summer salads? Be sure to visit my Best Summer Salad Recipes collection for pasta salads, fruit salads, and picnic side dishes.

How to Make Greek Pasta Salad

This easy pasta salad is loaded with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, olives, and a simple homemade Greek dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 8 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool completely.

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, bell pepper, and parsley.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Add the feta cheese and lightly toss again.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Tips for the Best Greek Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta just until al dente so it holds its texture after chilling.

Rinsing the pasta under cold water helps cool it quickly and prevents sticking.

Use block feta cheese if possible for the best creamy texture and flavor.

Easy Variations

This Greek pasta salad is easy to customize with your favorite Mediterranean ingredients.

Try adding:

• grilled chicken
• chickpeas
• artichoke hearts
• roasted red peppers
• spinach
• pepperoncini peppers
• sun-dried tomatoes

You can also swap regular pasta for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber and protein.

Serving Ideas

This Greek pasta salad pairs perfectly with:

• grilled chicken
• burgers
• kabobs
• grilled shrimp
• sandwiches
• BBQ meals

It’s also perfect for Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day cookouts, baby showers, brunches, church potlucks, and summer parties.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If the pasta absorbs too much dressing after chilling, drizzle with a little extra olive oil or dressing before serving.

This pasta salad is best served cold or slightly chilled.

More Easy Summer Salad Recipes

• Mandarin Orange Salad
• Creamy Dill Pasta Salad
• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
• Antipasto Pasta Salad
• Corn and Avocado Salad
• Cucumber Tomato Salad

Follow my pasta salad recipe board on Pinterest.