What does horiatiki mean?

Horiatiki meaning refers to “village-style,” describing the traditional greek salad (horiatiki) made with simple, fresh ingredients and no lettuce.

Can I make this horiatiki village pasta salad recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the salad a few hours ahead and store chilled. Add feta and a little extra greek salad dressing before serving.

What pasta works best for Greek village pasta salad?

Short pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli works best because it holds the greek salad dressing and mixes well with village salad ingredients.

Is this an authentic Greek salad recipe?

It’s inspired by an authentic horiatiki salad recipe, with pasta added for a heartier Mediterranean meal.

Horiatiki Village Pasta Salad – Easy Greek Recipe 2026

Name: Horiatiki Village Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 12 oz short pasta; 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes; 1 large cucumber; 1/2 red onion; 3/4 cup Kalamata olives; 6 oz feta cheese; 1/3 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper

Description

A fresh and vibrant Mediterranean pasta salad inspired by the traditional Greek village salad (Horiatiki). Made with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a simple Greek olive oil dressing, this pasta version is perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a light, satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

For the Pasta Salad:

12 oz (340g) short pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large cucumber, diced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
¾ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
6 oz feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional, traditional in many Greek versions)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

For the Horiatiki Dressing:

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional but recommended)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop cooking. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cools, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper (if using). Slice olives if desired.

Step 3: Make the Greek Salad Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and bell pepper. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

Step 5: Add Feta & Chill

Fold in feta cheese carefully to avoid over-breaking it. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Authentic Touch: Traditional Horiatiki salad does not contain lettuce — keep it simple and fresh.
Best Pasta Choice: Use short pasta shapes that hold dressing well like rotini or fusilli.
Make Ahead Tip: Add feta just before serving for the best texture.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Salad / Pasta Salad
Method: Boiled / Tossed
Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean