There is something truly delightfully fresh and vibrant about this Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It perfectly balances the creamy saltiness of feta cheese with the bright, juicy burst of tomatoes, all tossed with tender orzo and flavored with a zing of lemon and Greek seasoning. It’s a simple yet stunning dish that’s as colorful to look at as it is satisfying to eat, making it an absolute must-have for picnics, potlucks, or any time you want a refreshing pasta salad that sparkles with both flavor and personality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe comes from a handful of straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each bring something essential to the table—texture, brightness, creaminess, and that unmistakable Mediterranean flavor. When assembled, they create a harmony that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 (16-oz) package orzo pasta: The tiny, rice-shaped pasta that provides the perfect tender base for this salad.
- 3/4 cup olive oil: Adds richness and helps carry the flavors while keeping everything silky smooth.
- 4 to 6 tsp Greek seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with bold, herby Mediterranean notes.
- 6 roma tomatoes (seeded & diced): Juicy and sweet, they add a pop of freshness and vibrant color.
- 6 green onions (chopped): Brings a mild, crisp bite that complements the creamy feta.
- 12-oz crumbled feta cheese: The star of the show, delivering creamy saltiness and rich tanginess.
- Black pepper (to taste): Enhances the depth of flavor with a gentle kick.
- 1½ Tbsp lemon juice: Introduces a bright, zesty lift that keeps the salad from feeling heavy.
How to Make Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Orzo Pasta
Start by cooking your orzo according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. Drain it well to avoid any sogginess and let it cool slightly so it’s warm but not steaming hot. This step ensures the pasta absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy, setting a wonderful foundation for the salad.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Now for the fun part: toss the orzo with olive oil and Greek seasoning, which acts as a vibrant spice kick tying the salad together. Next, gently fold in the diced roma tomatoes and chopped green onions, whose freshness brightens every bite. Crumbled feta cheese is then added, melting slightly into the warm pasta, enriching the overall creaminess. Finish by seasoning with black pepper and a splash of lemon juice for a perfect balance of tang and peppery warmth.
Step 3: Chill to Marry the Flavors
Cover your pasta salad and pop it into the refrigerator for at least two hours. This resting period lets all the flavors harmonize beautifully, giving you a salad with layers of refreshing Mediterranean goodness. Believe me, the difference chilling makes is incredible — it’s when this Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe truly sings.
How to Serve Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your pasta salad with a final sprinkle of fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or basil to add an extra hit of color and herbal fragrance. A few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a splash more brightness if they wish. For a little texture contrast, lightly toasted pine nuts or walnuts can be scattered over the top. These touches make the dish stunning for any gathering.
Side Dishes
This salad is so full of flavor and substance it can stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or lamb, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean feast. A crusty loaf of bread or some warm pita rounds out the meal while keeping things casual and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Fancy a twist? Serve this salad inside hollowed grape tomatoes or small bell peppers for charming bite-sized appetizers. Alternatively, layer it in a glass trifle bowl to show off the stunning colors in a buffet setting. It also makes a fantastic filling for wraps or pita pockets, making it a versatile star beyond just the bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will intensify, so it often tastes even better the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to re-mix the ingredients.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the fresh tomatoes and feta cheese, which may change texture and become watery or crumbly after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary or advised. If you prefer it slightly warmed, bring it to room temperature and serve; however, the fresh flavors are most vibrant when chilled.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! While orzo works wonderfully because of its small size and texture, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or couscous to suit what you have on hand or your preference.
What if I don’t have Greek seasoning?
No worries at all — you can make your own blend with dried oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give you that classic Mediterranean flavor without needing a pre-made mix.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply swap the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative or marinated tofu cubes. The salad will still be fresh and tasty, just with a different type of creaminess and protein.
Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe keeps well and holds up to a couple of days in the fridge, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Feel free to toss in cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives to add more crunch and flavor complexity. Just remember to adjust the seasoning as needed so all flavors stay balanced.
Final Thoughts
This Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those rare dishes that always feels like a celebration on the plate—fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. It’s simple to whip up, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends with every bite. If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the perfect time to make this vibrant dish a new favorite you’ll return to again and again.
Print
Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Feta & Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish perfect for gatherings and potlucks. Featuring tender orzo pasta tossed with juicy Roma tomatoes, crisp green onions, creamy crumbled feta, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing seasoned with Greek herbs, it’s an easy no-cook salad to prepare ahead and serve chilled.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (16-oz) package orzo pasta
Dressing & Seasoning
- 3/4 cup olive oil
- 4 to 6 tsp Greek seasoning
- 1½ Tbsp lemon juice
- Black pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Cheese
- 6 roma tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 6 green onions, chopped
- 12-oz crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo pasta according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and allow it to cool slightly to avoid wilting the fresh ingredients later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the warm orzo with the olive oil, Greek seasoning, diced Roma tomatoes, chopped green onions, crumbled feta cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix gently to evenly distribute all the flavors without breaking up the cheese too much.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes the pasta salad refreshingly cool and perfect for serving.
Notes
- For best results, seed the Roma tomatoes to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
- You can adjust the amount of Greek seasoning to taste for milder or bolder flavor.
- This salad keeps well for up to 2 days refrigerated, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra freshness if desired.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or light main course during warm weather.
