If you crave the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean but want something quick, refreshing, and satisfying, this Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe will become your go-to. Combining al dente pasta with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy Kalamata olives, and a zingy lemon-olive oil dressing, this salad captures the essence of a traditional Greek village salad in every bite. It is the perfect harmony of textures and tastes, offering a light yet hearty dish that’s bursting with sunshine and easy to prepare for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity: fresh, colorful ingredients that each bring something special to the bowl. Every component plays a crucial role, whether adding crunch, creaminess, or a punch of flavor, making this dish as delightful to eat as it is to look at.
- 2 cups cooked pasta: Penne, fusilli, or rotini work best because their shapes hold the dressing and bits of salad perfectly.
- 1 cucumber, diced: Adds refreshing crunch and coolness that balances the acidity of the dressing.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color brighten up every forkful.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a sharp, slightly sweet bite that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: Brings a wonderful briny depth that’s signature to Greek dishes.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional): For that creamy, salty finish—omit if you want to keep it vegan.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: The dressing’s rich base, adding smoothness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar: Provides balanced acidity to brighten and tie all ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds fresh citrus notes that lift the entire salad.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Infuses that unmistakable earthy, herbal aroma classic in Greek cooking.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle kick and warmth to round off the taste.
How to Make Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente—firm but tender. Drain it well and set it aside to cool slightly. This ensures the pasta won’t wilt the fresh vegetables when combined and lets the dressing coat each piece beautifully.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss together the cooled pasta, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and Kalamata olives. This colorful medley creates a fantastic balance of crunch and softness that makes each bite exciting.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
Whisk the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. Pour this bright, tangy mixture over the salad to give it that classic Mediterranean zing—it’s what makes this Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe truly sing.
Step 4: Season and Toss
Sprinkle the salad with dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss everything until the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients, allowing the herbs and seasonings to infuse their flavors throughout the dish.
Step 5: Add Feta Cheese
Top your salad with crumbled feta cheese if you like. This creamy, salty addition pairs perfectly with the briny olives and fresh vegetables, completing the tasting experience inherent to this recipe.
Step 6: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Place the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling period lets the ingredients marry beautifully, enhancing the depth of flavor and making it even more refreshing to enjoy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Horiatiki Pasta Salad chilled as a light meal or a vibrant Mediterranean side dish. Its bright colors and fresh taste make it the perfect accompaniment for warm-weather dining, picnics, or casual get-togethers.
How to Serve Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh herbs like parsley or oregano on top for added fragrance and a pop of color. A drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving can add shine and deepen flavors. For an extra touch, consider some toasted pine nuts or a few caper berries if you want a tangy crunch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken souvlaki or lamb chops, and also complements seafood dishes brilliantly. Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or pita for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal that feels both wholesome and celebratory.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or tomatoes as edible bowls. Alternatively, layering it in clear glass jars for picnics or lunches makes for a visually appealing presentation while keeping flavors fresh until you’re ready to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from absorbing too much dressing, you can store the dressing separately and toss before serving again.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, this salad does not freeze well. Freezing can alter the texture of the cucumbers and tomatoes, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. If you prefer it less chilled, just take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While penne, fusilli, and rotini are ideal for holding the dressing, feel free to use any pasta shape you love; just ensure it holds up well when tossed with the veggies and dressing.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or swap it for a vegan cheese alternative to keep it plant-based while preserving the delicious flavors.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Definitely. Preparing it a few hours or even the day before helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it chilled until serving to maintain its freshness and texture.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Adding protein such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some toasted nuts can turn this light salad into a hearty meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
What wine pairs well with Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe?
A crisp, dry white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh, zesty flavors of this salad wonderfully, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe of your meal.
Final Thoughts
This Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe is a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients and simple, authentic flavors that always brighten my table. It’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and utterly delicious—truly a dish to savor and share. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this seemingly simple salad can instantly elevate any meal with its zest and charm!
Print
Horiatiki Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Horiatiki Pasta Salad combines perfectly cooked pasta with crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing. Ideal as a light Mediterranean-inspired meal or a vibrant side dish, this salad is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed chilled for the best flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for a vegan version)
Dressing and Seasoning
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly to prevent wilting the fresh vegetables.
- Combine vegetables and pasta: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and sliced Kalamata olives. Gently toss to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Add dressing: Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and fresh lemon juice for a vibrant, tangy flavor.
- Season and toss: Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the salad. Toss gently once more to incorporate the seasonings throughout without crushing the ingredients.
- Add feta cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad if using. This adds a creamy, salty contrast to the fresh vegetables.
- Chill and meld flavors: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to marry beautifully.
- Serve chilled: Serve the Horiatiki Pasta Salad cold as a delicious, light Mediterranean side dish or a satisfying meal on its own.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Use pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini to hold the dressing well.
- Chilling the salad before serving enhances the flavor blend.
- Adjust salt carefully since Kalamata olives and feta add saltiness.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or mint for additional freshness if desired.
