This colorful Mediterranean chicken pasta salad is packed with tasty flavors! You’ll find sunny veggies, tender chicken, and zesty dressing all tossed together.
I love how quick it is to whip up, making it a perfect lunch or side dish. Seriously, it’s a great way to eat your veggies without even noticing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini pasta works great for this salad because its shape catches the dressing well. However, you can use any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or penne. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta are also good options for different dietary needs!
Chicken: You can use cooked chicken breast, but rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. It’s juicy and flavorful, plus you save cooking time. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or grilled tofu can be a nice substitute!
Olives: Kalamata olives give a nice briney touch, but if you can’t find them, green olives or black olives work well too. Just pick one that you enjoy, as it’ll still add great flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty burst to the salad. If you need a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu with a sprinkle of salt or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Goat cheese is another tasty alternative if you prefer a softer cheese.
How Do I Make the Salad Extra Flavorful?
The dressing is key! Start by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano in a bowl. Fresh herbs boost flavor, so use as much as you like. If you prefer it tangier, add a bit more vinegar, or even a splash of lemon juice for freshness.
- Always taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust as needed with salt, pepper, or extra vinegar.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Allowing the ingredients to sit together enhances the flavors tremendously.
- For an added crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds right before serving.
Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini pasta or your favorite short pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: juice of ½ lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So overall, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. A perfect quick-bite solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it off. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the pasta cools, grab a small bowl. In this bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If you want a zesty touch, you can also squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. Mix well and set the dressing aside.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced Kalamata olives, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. Give everything a gentle stir to mix well.
4. Add the Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. Make sure you’re not too rough to keep the tomatoes and feta intact!
5. Adjust the Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. You might want to sprinkle in a bit more salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your preference. This is the fun part where you get to make it your own!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic light lunch or a side dish for dinner. Dig in and enjoy the refreshing Mediterranean flavors!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option if you’re looking for more fiber. Gluten-free pasta works perfectly too; just cook it according to package instructions for the best results.
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or artichokes would be delicious. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your Mediterranean chicken pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the freshest taste, it’s best enjoyed within the first 1-2 days.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or grilled tofu, and skip the feta cheese, or use a vegan alternative. Adjust the dressing ingredients if needed for a fully plant-based meal!
