Name: Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any short pasta like penne or rotini); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small cucumber, diced; ½ cup red onion, finely chopped; ½ cup black or kalamata olives, sliced; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or basil); ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for creaminess); 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning); 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Diced bell pepper; Artichoke hearts; Chickpeas

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 7 reviews

I absolutely love this Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe because it brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients with a zesty dressing that just sings in every bite. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of simple flavors – juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, tangy feta, and crisp cucumbers – all tossed with tender elbow macaroni and a bright lemon-olive oil dressing. Whenever I make it, it’s like sharing a little taste of sunshine and the Mediterranean coast with my friends and family. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and so easy to whip up that it quickly becomes a go-to for picnics, BBQs, or any occasion when I want something light yet hearty.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe

What really draws me to this Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe is the balance of flavors and textures. The acidity from the lemon juice and the aromatic oregano play off the creamy feta and salty olives perfectly, while the fresh veggies add a crisp, refreshing contrast to the tender pasta. Every bite feels thoughtfully layered, and I find myself craving it again and again. It’s deliciously bright but also comforting, which is a hard combination to pull off in a pasta salad.

Beyond taste, I adore how straightforward this recipe is. It comes together quickly with ingredients that are usually easy to find, and the prep feels more like fun chopping than a chore in the kitchen. Plus, I love that you can make it ahead of time – it actually gets better after sitting in the fridge for a bit, when all the flavors have a chance to mingle beautifully. I always think this salad is perfect for those warm-weather gatherings, family dinners, or to keep in the fridge for a simple lunch. It really stands out because it’s not just a pasta salad; it’s a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dish that feels special but never pretentious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a grey cloth beside it, filled with a colorful pasta salad. The salad has a base layer of spiral pasta that is light tan in color, mixed throughout with chickpeas that are beige and round. Chopped cucumbers, green and sliced, are scattered evenly as the next layer. Bright red grape tomatoes, cut in half, are placed on top and around the salad, adding vibrant pops of color. There are also dark purple olives and pieces of artichoke hearts, off-white with a tender texture, mixed in. Small pieces of chopped red onion create purple spots, while freshly chopped green basil leaves are sprinkled on top, adding freshness. A gold spoon rests inside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is delightfully simple, relying on fresh, quality ingredients that each bring something vital to the table – color, crunch, tang, or creaminess. Together, they create a dish that’s harmonious and vibrant, perfect for any time you want a bright, feel-good salad.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

2 cups elbow macaroni: I find elbow macaroni perfect for holding onto the dressing and other ingredients, but penne or rotini work great too.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These add a juicy pop of sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the salad.
1 small cucumber, diced: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers cool down the bite and add crunch.
½ cup red onion, finely chopped: A little sharpness here adds balance without overpowering the other flavors.
½ cup black or kalamata olives, sliced: Their briny depth is one of the signature tastes of this salad.
½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and salty, feta brings richness and texture that makes every forkful satisfying.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (or basil): The herbs tie everything together with fresh, green notes.
Optional add-ins: Try diced bell pepper, artichoke hearts, or chickpeas to tweak the salad to your taste.
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, it adds smoothness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: The zingy citrus brightens the entire salad beautifully.
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional): I love how a little mustard adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the dressing.
1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning): This herbaceous touch is what gives the dressing an unmistakable Mediterranean flair.
1 clove garlic, minced: Just enough garlic to add savory depth without being overwhelming.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essentials for bringing out all the flavors and seasoning everything perfectly.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the pasta because you want it to hold its shape and have a slight bite. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.

Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or jar with a lid, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This dressing is bright and herbaceous, bringing the whole salad together.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley. This is where the Mediterranean magic starts to show.

Step 4: Pour the dressing evenly over the salad ingredients and toss gently but thoroughly until all components are coated. I love how the dressing clings to the pasta and veggies, giving each bite flavor and moisture without being soggy.

Step 5: For the best flavor, I recommend chilling the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the pasta soak up the dressing, and the flavors have a chance to meld into something truly delicious.

Step 6: Just before serving, garnish the salad with a little extra crumbled feta and some fresh parsley. It adds a lovely final touch in both appearance and flavor.

Servings and Timing

This Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe yields about 4 to 6 servings, making it perfect for sharing at casual dinners or gatherings. The prep time is around 15 minutes, with an additional 8 to 10 minutes to cook the pasta. Including the optional chilling time, plan for about 45 minutes total. The chilling is worth it, though, as it really elevates the flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can serve it immediately, but the salad is always best after it’s had time to rest.

How to Serve This Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a fresh pasta salad that has three main layers: the base layer is light yellow twisted pasta, the middle layer contains bright green spinach leaves, chopped cucumber pieces, halved red cherry tomatoes, and sliced purple olives, while the top layer is sprinkled with small white crumbles of soft cheese and thin strips of light purple onion. A silver fork is resting inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl is sitting on a light green-striped cloth on a white marbled surface with a wooden pepper grinder in the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this salad chilled or at room temperature because it keeps that crisp, refreshing quality that feels so satisfying on warm days. It pairs beautifully alongside grilled meats, like chicken or lamb kebabs, or even Mediterranean-style roasted vegetables. It’s one of those versatile dishes that can stand alone as a light lunch, but it also shines as a colorful side dish at potlucks or barbecues.

For presentation, I like to serve it in a large, shallow bowl sprinkled with extra crumbled feta and a scattering of fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of green. Adding a lemon wedge on the side lets guests add a bit more citrus if they like. For portion sizes, about a cup per person is generous enough to satisfy, especially with other dishes served alongside.

When it comes to beverages, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lively rosé complements the bright, herbal flavors perfectly. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a mint-infused iced tea makes a refreshing accompaniment that keeps the meal light and fun. This salad always feels like a celebration to me, so it fits wonderfully on festive tables, casual family dinners, or even as part of a holiday spread with Mediterranean flair.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe is. If you want to keep it gluten-free, you can easily swap in gluten-free pasta options without losing any of the flavor or texture. For those following a vegan diet, simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative or toasted nuts for a creamy bite. You can also experiment with different add-ins like artichoke hearts, chickpeas, or roasted red peppers to customize the salad according to your mood or what you have on hand.

If you’re feeling adventurous with the flavor, try swapping the dried oregano for fresh herbs like dill or mint, which give the salad a brighter, more aromatic twist. Another fun idea is adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. For a creamier dressing, a dollop of Greek yogurt stirred into the lemon-olive oil dressing can add a lovely tang and texture without overpowering the classic Mediterranean vibe.

The cooking method stays pretty much the same, but I sometimes add the minced garlic directly to the warm pasta right after draining so the heat draws out the garlic flavor a little more. Tiny tweaks like that can make a big difference in how the flavors develop without adding any complexity to the recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftover Mediterranean Macaroni Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps really well for up to 3 days, and I find that the flavors deepen even more after a day. Using glass containers is my favorite because they don’t absorb odors, and it’s easy to see how much salad you have left. Just give the salad a good gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing and freshness.

Freezing

Freezing this macaroni salad is not something I recommend because the fresh vegetables and feta cheese tend to lose their texture and become watery when thawed. The pasta itself can become mushy, and the dressing may separate, which changes the salad’s appeal significantly. If you do want to freeze portions, I suggest freezing the cooked pasta separately, then combining everything fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary and isn’t ideal. If you prefer the pasta warm, heat the plain cooked pasta separately and then toss it with the fresh vegetables and dressing just before serving. Avoid microwaving the entire salad as the feta and fresh ingredients can become unpleasantly soft and lose their flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it at least 30 minutes before serving to let all the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and keep it chilled in the refrigerator for even better depth of flavor.

What can I substitute for feta cheese if I don’t eat dairy?

If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan feta-style cheese or simply substitute with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a similar texture and added crunch. Nutritional yeast also adds a cheesy flavor boost if you want to experiment.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You just need to swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta brand you like. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a simple switch for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh and tasty for about 3 days. After that, the vegetables might start to release water, so I suggest enjoying it within that timeframe for the best texture and flavor.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent additions if you want to turn this into a more substantial entrée. The flavors blend beautifully, and it keeps the Mediterranean vibe intact.

Conclusion

I really hope you give this Mediterranean Macaroni Salad Recipe a try soon because it’s one of those dishes I keep going back to whenever I want something that’s flavorful, fresh, and effortless to make. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little gift from the Mediterranean – easy, vibrant, and full of bright, happy flavors. Trust me, once you taste that tangy lemon dressing with the salty feta and crunchy veggies, you’ll want to make it again and again, just like I do!