Name: Mediterranean Macaroni Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and black pepper to taste

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This Mediterranean Macaroni Salad is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the classic pasta salad. Packed with crisp vegetables, briny olives, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing, it’s a dish I love bringing to potlucks, picnics, or simply enjoying as a light lunch. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Healthy Mediterranean Macaroni Salad with Feta and Olives

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad for its bold flavors and how it manages to be both hearty and refreshing at the same time. The combination of al dente macaroni, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean staples like olives and feta makes it incredibly satisfying. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. It’s vegetarian-friendly, easy to make, and pairs well with just about anything.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced

For the dressing:

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

I start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Then I drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
While the pasta cooks, I prepare the vegetables. I halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the olives.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooled macaroni with the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese. I gently mix in the chopped parsley.
In a small bowl or jar, I whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
I pour the dressing over the pasta and toss everything together until well coated.
I like to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors have time to meld together.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I switch up the veggies depending on what I have on hand. Roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts add a great flavor twist. If I want to add protein, I’ll mix in some grilled chicken or chickpeas. Swapping the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or even gluten-free pasta also works really well.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Since it’s a cold pasta salad, I don’t reheat it, but I do like to give it a good stir before serving again. If it seems a little dry after chilling, I drizzle a bit more olive oil and vinegar to freshen it up.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make Mediterranean Macaroni Salad?

I usually make it up to 24 hours in advance. It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, I sometimes use rotini or penne if I’m out of elbow macaroni. Just make sure it’s a short pasta that holds the dressing well.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. I make a batch and portion it out for lunches during the week. It holds up great in the fridge.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If I want a milder flavor, I’ll substitute feta with goat cheese or even mozzarella pearls.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, I skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and make sure the Dijon mustard and pasta I use are vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Macaroni Salad is one of those dishes I can count on for flavor, ease, and versatility. Whether I’m serving it at a gathering or prepping it for a few days of lunches, it never disappoints. It’s colorful, fresh, and packed with all the Mediterranean flavors I love.