If you're looking for something Greek-inspired and delicious, this Instant Pot Feta Pasta Salad dish is for you! Feta cheese, olives, and a simple dressing come together to create a salad that's perfect for a summer picnic or potluck.
Jump to:
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy and Tangy: The feta cheese adds a delightful richness and tang to this pasta salad.
- Easy Preparation: With the Instant Pot, this feta pasta recipe is both convenient and quick to prepare.
- Perfect for Parties: This versatile Greek Pasta is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for picnics or potlucks.
🥘 Ingredients
- Tricolor Rotini Pasta: Adds color and texture to the salad.
- Feta Cheese: Brings a creamy and tangy element to the pasta salad.
- Cucumber: Balances out the flavors and adds a hint of coolness.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Contribute a burst of sweetness and juiciness to the pasta salad.
- Kalamata Olives: Are a good source of healthy fats, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste.
- Red Onion: Adds a mild spiciness and a touch of sharpness to the pasta salad.
- Italian Dressing: Adds a tangy and herbaceous note, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
🔄 Substitutions & Variations
- Pasta Swap: Use orzo, penne, or whole wheat pasta for a different texture or added fiber.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace feta with dairy-free feta or marinated tofu crumbles for a vegan version.
- Flavor Boost: Add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.
🔪 How To Make Instant Pot Feta Pasta Salad
Step One: Place pasta in the Instant Pot and submerge in water. Add enough water to cover the pasta.
Step Two: Seal lid and pressure valve and cook on high for 6 minutes. Quick-release pressure and drain pasta. Run cold water over pasta for a few minutes. Let pasta cool.
Step Three: Add chopped vegetables and dressing to the cooked pasta and gently fold to mix.
Step Four: Finally add the feta cheese and enjoy! Garnish your feta pasta salad with fresh basil leaves and serve!
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Use Rotini for Texture: Rotini is ideal for holding onto the dressing and other ingredients, but feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like fusilli or penne if you prefer.
- Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor: To enhance the Greek flavors, add some fresh basil or oregano into the salad along with the feta. It will elevate the dish with a burst of fresh taste.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pasta to fully absorb the dressing.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to mix in other Greek salad ingredients like bell peppers, Kalamata olives, or even artichoke hearts for added variety and nutrition.
💭 FAQs
Yes! There is no difference in the nutritional value of colored pasta. The only difference is in appearance. Colored pasta can be fun to eat and may even make you more likely to eat your veggies!
We use rotini pasta in this dish because it's a great shape for holding onto the dressing and other ingredients. Plus, it's just plain fun to eat! You can use any type of pasta you like, but we think rotini is the best choice for this particular dish.
Once you've made the Feta Cheese Pasta Salad, allow it to cool to room temperature. Afterward, refrigerate it into an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Avoid freezing to maintain the salad's texture. Before serving leftovers, gently toss to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
🧂Serving Suggestions
These are my favorite dishes to serve with feta pasta:
- Grilled Lamb Chops: Lamb Chops are a delicious and easy way to get your Greek fix. You could also try Instant Pot Lamb Chops for something easy and quick.
- Asian Steak Skewers: These Steak Skewers are packed with flavor and make a great side dish for feta pasta.
- Greek Chicken Kabobs: Chicken kabobs are full of flavor and perfect for a summer BBQ. Also try Shrimp Kabobs, they are tasty and simple to cook.
🍽 Related Recipes
Did you make this recipe? Leave a review and a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below, or tag us in our Facebook Group! Alternatively, bookmark it in your browser or save to Pinterest.
Instant Pot Feta Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 oz Tricolor Rotini Pasta
- 1 Cucumber peeled and diced
- 1,½ Cups Cherry Tomatoes quartered
- ¼ Cup Black Olives sliced
- ½ Cup Red Onion Chopped
- 1, ½ Cup Italian Dressing
Instructions
- Place pasta in the instant pot and submerge in water. Add enough water to cover the pasta. Seal lid and pressure valve and cook on high for 6 minutes.
- Quick-release pressure and drain pasta. Run cold water over pasta for a few minutes. Let pasta cool.
- Add chopped vegetables and dressing to the pasta and gently fold to mix.
- Enjoy!
