Craving a dish that’s light aur flavorful for those warm summer days? This Mediterranean Grilled Veggie & Feta Pasta Salad is a refreshing pasta salad loaded with smoky grilled summer veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick dinner, this salad brings the sunny Mediterranean to your plate with every bite.
In this post, we’ll explore why this pasta salad is a seasonal must, share an easy recipe, and toss in tips to make it your own. Let’s grill up some goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad
This salad is a perfect blend of fresh and bold. Here’s why it’s a summer hit:
- Light Aur Refreshing: Grilled veggies keep it airy and easy on the stomach.
- Flavorful Punch: Feta and a tangy dressing make every forkful burst with taste.
- Summer Vibes: Loaded with seasonal produce—perfect for hot days.
It’s a light aur flavorful meal that feels like a Mediterranean getaway—simple yet satisfying. Ready to savor the season?
Ingredients for Mediterranean Grilled Veggie & Feta Pasta Salad
You’ll need fresh ingredients for the pasta, veggies, and dressing. Here’s what to gather:
For the Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, quartered
- 1 yellow bell pepper, quartered
- 1 red onion, sliced into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or parsley)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Swap in your favorite veggies or herbs—this salad loves a personal twist!
How to Make Mediterranean Grilled Veggie & Feta Pasta Salad
This recipe is quick and fuss-free—grill, toss, and serve. Here’s how it’s done:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.
- Grill the Veggies: Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion with 2 tbsp olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, grilled veggies, feta, olives, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to coat.
- Serve: Chill for 15-30 minutes (optional) or serve at room temp for a light aur flavorful summer treat!
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
Want to make it perfect? Try these tricks:
- Grill Ahead: Prep the veggies a day in advance—they taste even better chilled.
- Cheese Swap: Use paneer or goat cheese if feta’s not your vibe.
- Keep It Crunchy: Don’t overcook the veggies—charred but firm is the goal.
Why This Recipe Fits Summer Days
This Mediterranean Grilled Veggie & Feta Pasta Salad is made for warm weather. It’s light aur flavorful, keeping you cool and satisfied without weighing you down—perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a no-fuss dinner. Ready in under 40 minutes (including grilling), it’s a breeze to whip up and travels well for outdoor fun.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a quick toss before serving—it’s just as tasty the next day!
Customize Your Pasta Salad
Love a twist? Here’s how to switch it up:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or grilled green chilies for heat.
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra heft.
- Desi Touch: Swap basil for coriander and add a hint of chaat masala.
Make it your summer go-to—this salad thrives on creativity!
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Grilled Veggie & Feta Pasta Salad is a light aur flavorful way to enjoy summer’s best. With smoky grilled veggies, creamy feta, and a zesty dressing, it’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with Mediterranean charm, it’s your ticket to a delicious, feel-good meal.
Ready to grill and chill? Grab your ingredients and let’s whip up something tasty. Have a favorite veggie or spice to add? I’d love to hear how you enjoy this summery delight!