Quick and Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad for Busy Weeknights
Czarryy
This vibrant Mediterranean Pasta Salad is perfect for busy weeknights! With a mix of penne pasta, fresh arugula, juicy tomatoes, salty olives, and creamy feta, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it’s a deliciously easy meal that’s ready in just about 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
For the Zingy Lemon Vinaigrette:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 large garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 16 oz. box penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 2 cups fresh arugula
- 12-15 fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup Kalamata olives chopped
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 oz. feta cheese crumbled
For Garnish:
- Extra arugula
- fresh basil leaves
- sprinkle of Parmesan
Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse quickly under cold water, and set aside. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a jar or small bowl, combine all the vinaigrette ingredients and shake or whisk until well blended. Set aside. Garlic & Tomato Sauté: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. Add the halved tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add the arugula and sauté until just wilted. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne, tomato-arugula mixture, sliced basil, chopped olives, Parmesan, and feta. Toss everything together with about 3 tablespoons of the lemon vinaigrette. Serve: Garnish with extra arugula, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately with the remaining vinaigrette on the side.
- Customize this salad by adding roasted vegetables, chickpeas, or grilled chicken for extra protein.
- If making ahead, store the salad and vinaigrette separately. Toss them together just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute with gluten-free penne pasta.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this salad as a main course for a light dinner or as a side dish at your next BBQ. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Keyword Mediterranean Pasta Salad