Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a big, colorful bowl of Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad. This salad isn’t just beautiful—it’s a breeze to put together and bursts with bright, fresh flavors, making it absolutely ideal for those nights when you want something hearty and healthy, but you’re short on time. Imagine tender penne pasta tossed with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, briny olives, and sun-dried tomatoes, all coated in a zingy lemon herb dressing that will make your taste buds dance. This is the kind of dish you’ll crave again and again, not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s so easy to make and incredibly flexible. Whether you need a speedy weeknight dinner, a stellar potluck contribution, or a make-ahead lunch, this vibrant pasta salad truly delivers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients and see how they work together for maximum flavor:

• Penne Pasta: The sturdy shape holds up well and catches the dressing in every bite. Can swap for rotini, farfalle, or any short pasta you have on hand!
• Olive Oil: Smooths out the dressing and brings that signature Mediterranean richness.
• Lemon Juice: Adds fresh, zesty brightness. Use freshly squeezed—bottled just isn’t the same!
• Red Wine Vinegar: For tang and a hint of sharpness that balances the richness.
• Water: Thins the dressing, helping it coat everything lightly.
• Fresh Parsley: Pops with herbaceous flavor and a bright green color.
• Garlic: Minced for a beautiful bite that infuses through the salad.
• Dried Oregano & Dried Basil: Essential for that authentically Mediterranean aroma and taste.
• Salt & Cracked Pepper: Crucial for enhancing every other flavor—don’t skimp!
• Romaine Lettuce: Adds crunch and bulk (Cos lettuce works too). Chop just before using to keep it crisp.
• Cucumber: Cool, refreshing crunch; keeps the salad lively and satisfying.
• Avocado: Creamy texture that beautifully offsets the tangy dressing. Use just-ripe for best creaminess!
• Red Pepper: Slices of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Grape/Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy bites that add a burst of freshness.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a sweet-sharp kick—soak in cold water if you want it milder.
• Kalamata Olives: Brings savory brininess and a classic Mediterranean vibe.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Chewy, tangy, rich—absolutely worth using the kind packed in oil for best texture and flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Salty, tangy finishing touch that melts slightly into the salad.

Variations

Don’t feel tied to the exact blueprint—here are some ways to play with this dish:

• Protein Punch: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, canned tuna, or chickpeas for an extra filling meal.
• Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or shaved parmesan instead of feta for a different flavor spin.
• More Greens: Toss in arugula or baby spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a satisfying crunch.
• Vegan Version: Simply omit the feta or use your favorite plant-based cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne or your favorite gluten-free pasta.

How to Make Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling penne pasta in generously salted water until it’s perfectly al dente. As it cooks, get your salad dressing and vegetables ready. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold water. This step is key—it stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Herb Dressing

While pasta boils, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, red wine vinegar, a splash of water, finely chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, plus a bit of salt and cracked pepper. Mix until everything looks creamy and well blended. Taste and tweak the seasonings if needed—I like mine extra lemony!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chilled pasta, crisp romaine lettuce, cucumber, avocado, red pepper strips, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, kalamata olives, and those amazing sun-dried tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the lemon herb dressing and toss very well. Every bite should glisten.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Just before serving, crumble feta cheese on top. Give it one more gentle toss to mingle all the flavors, and taste again for salt and pepper—sometimes the feta brings extra saltiness, so make adjustments to your taste.

How to Serve

This salad is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but it’s also fantastic as a side. Serve it piled high in shallow bowls alongside garlic bread, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables. It makes a perfect partner to simple grilled chicken or fish, and if you want to go all out, try it next to lamb kebabs or crispy falafel. For picnics, scoop it into containers—it’s sturdy enough to handle travel. Sprinkle with extra feta, more fresh parsley, or even a squeeze of lemon just before eating for an extra fresh hit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. The flavors will deepen and meld the next day, and the pasta stays surprisingly resilient thanks to the lemony dressing. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Not recommended for this salad—avocado, lettuce, and tomatoes lose their texture after freezing. Enjoy it fresh!

Reheating

This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Give leftovers a quick toss and maybe add a fresh hit of lemon juice to perk it up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad combines convenience and flavor in a seriously crave-worthy way. It’s one of those recipes you’ll reach for on hot days, on busy nights, or whenever you want something that feels uplifting, colorful, and comforting. Give it a try and don’t be surprised if you end up making it on repeat—it’s just that irresistibly good.

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