If you’ve ever dreamed of a vibrant, fresh, and absolutely bursting-with-flavor pasta salad, then this Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a dazzling combination of crisp veggies, tender al dente pasta, and a tangy, herb-infused dressing that brightens every bite. Perfect for gatherings, quick lunches, or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean sunshine in every forkful. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe for its perfect balance of zesty lemon, earthy herbs, and creamy feta goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is simple, accessible, and essential in creating its rich tapestry of flavors and textures. From the tender penne pasta providing the hearty base to the zesty lemon and fresh parsley that lift the salad with brightness, each component plays a vital role.
- 12 ounces penne pasta, dried: The perfect pasta shape to hold on to dressing and veggies.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice: Brings bright acidity that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the oil.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps emulsify the dressing for even coating.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and vivid green color.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Provides depth and a gentle, savory kick.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano, minced: Classic Mediterranean herb that’s earthy and fragrant.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Sweet and slightly peppery, enhancing the herb mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and amplifying all flavors.
- 1 pinch cracked pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of heat.
- 4 cups Romaine or cos lettuce leaves, washed and dried: Crisp texture base for freshness and crunch.
- 1 large cucumber, diced: Cool and juicy, it brings a refreshing contrast.
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped: Creamy texture that complements the crisp vegetables.
- 1/2 large red pepper, deseeded and cut into thin strips: Sweetness paired with a beautiful pop of red color.
- 9 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of flavor and vibrant reds.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Mild pungency that adds a subtle bite.
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced: Briny and slightly fruity, a Mediterranean classic.
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained: Intensely flavorful with a chewy texture.
- 5-6 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese: Salty, creamy, and utterly addictive topping.
How to Make Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this step ensures your pasta is perfectly seasoned from the start. Add your penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. The goal is tender but slightly firm pasta, so it holds up well tossed with the fresh veggies and bright dressing. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Herb Dressing
While the pasta cooks, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, water, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. This lively dressing is the heart of the Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe and layers on fresh, zesty, and herbal notes that tie the whole dish together beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne with Romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, creamy avocado, thin strips of red pepper, juicy grape tomatoes, red onion slices, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and the crumbled feta. The mélange of colors and textures already looks like a feast just waiting for the dressing.
Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad, then gently toss everything to coat each ingredient evenly with the bright, flavorful mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This step is key because a well-balanced dressing turns these simple ingredients into a harmonious Mediterranean masterpiece.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley or some fresh basil leaves on top just before serving. A few whole Kalamata olives or additional crumbled feta can make the salad look irresistibly inviting. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and amplify those beloved Mediterranean flavors.
Side Dishes
This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light yet satisfying meal. It also works beautifully alongside warm pita bread and hummus for a vegetarian spread. The bright, herby flavors complement everything from smoky meats to creamy dips, making this salad a versatile go-to side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this pasta salad in colorful bowls or mason jars for a rustic picnic vibe. You could also hollow out a large bell pepper or tomato and stuff it with the salad for an eye-catching appetizer. For party settings, individual portions in small cups or on endive leaves add a fun, bite-sized option that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of the fresh vegetables and avocado, enjoy the salad within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor. Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and refresh the flavors.
Freezing
This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. The fresh vegetables and dressing lose their texture and vibrancy after freezing and thawing, so it’s recommended to make it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge only.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not advised. For leftovers, simply allow it to come to room temperature if straight from the fridge or enjoy it chilled for that refreshing Mediterranean bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While penne holds the dressing well, small shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully too. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the dressing and veggies.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
You can make it vegan by simply leaving out the feta cheese or swapping it for a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients and dressing are naturally vegan and full of flavor.
Can I prepare the components separately in advance?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and make the dressing a day ahead to save time. Chop the vegetables shortly before serving to keep them fresh and crisp. Then, toss everything together just before enjoying.
What’s the best way to prevent the avocado from browning?
To keep avocado fresh and green, toss it with a little lemon juice right after chopping. This simple step slows oxidation and preserves its creamy texture and color in the salad.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions that pair wonderfully with this salad. Adding protein boosts its heartiness while keeping it light and nutritious.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is a true celebration of fresh, bright flavors and easy, wholesome ingredients all coming together in one spectacular dish. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again when you crave a meal that is both satisfying and full of sunshine. So gather your ingredients, whip up this pasta salad, and prepare to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones!
Print
Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad loaded with fresh veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or side dish, this pasta salad combines classic Mediterranean flavors in a quick and easy no-cook recipe after boiling the pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta, dried
Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch cracked pepper, to taste
Salad Components
- 4 cups Romaine or cos lettuce leaves, washed and dried
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 1/2 large red pepper, deseeded and cut into thin strips
- 9 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained
- 5–6 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Lemon Herb Dressing: While the pasta cooks, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, water, parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and cracked pepper in a jug or large bowl until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: Add the romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, chopped avocado, thinly sliced red pepper, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl with the pasta.
- Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared lemon herb dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat all components with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve the Mediterranean pasta salad immediately for best freshness, or chill briefly in the refrigerator beforehand for a cool, refreshing touch.
Notes
- Rinsing the pasta after cooking stops it from overcooking and helps it cool quickly for the salad.
- Use fresh herbs and lemon juice for the best bright flavor in the dressing.
- Feel free to swap penne for another short pasta like rotini or farfalle.
- Avocado adds creaminess, but you can omit or substitute with olives for a different texture.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and chilled, but add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.
