Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Olives, Cherry Tomatoes, Mint & Jalapeno
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is fresh, herbaceous, and bursting with flavor. It’s packed with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, cooling mint, and spicy jalapeno — all tossed in a lemony olive oil dressing. Perfect as a side or light vegetarian main!
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
8 oz (225g) short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata or green olives, sliced
1 jalapeno, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
1/2 cup cucumber, diced (optional for crunch)
1/4 cup red onion or shallot, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Optional: 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Lemon-Olive Oil Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 garlic clove, finely minced
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for creaminess)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta until and cook pasta until cook pasta untd cook pasta until al dente.
Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool.
2. Prep the Veggies & Herbs:
While pasta cooks, chop tomatoes, olives, jalapeno, mint, onion, and any extras (like cucumber or parsley).
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, veggies, olives, and herbs.
Pour dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything well.
5. Serve:
Garnish with more mint or feta if using.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes & Tips:
Mint adds a refreshing twist that balances the heat from jalapeño — don’t skip it!
For deeper flavor, let the salad sit for 20–30 minutes before serving.
Want more protein? Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tuna.
You can swap jalapeno with mild chili or crushed red pepper for milder heat.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes! It holds up well for 2–3 days in the fridge. Add fresh herbs just before serving.
Q: What kind of pasta works best?
A: Short shapes like fusilli or farfalle hold dressing and mix-ins best.
Q: Is it vegan?
A: Yes, if you skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.
Q: What can I serve it with?
A: Great with grilled fish, lamb, shrimp skewers, or falafel.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 40g
Fiber: 4g