Name: Tzatziki Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables and Herb Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 16 ounces rotini pasta (use gluten free, if needed); 1 cucumber, diced; 1 carrot, diced; 1/2 sweet onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced (can use fire-roasted jarred pepper); 1/2 cup kalamata olives, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1.5 cups plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (use a dairy-free yogurt for vegan version); 1/2 cup red wine vinegar; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill

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Introduction

This Tzatziki Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or as a vibrant side at any meal. Combining creamy Greek yogurt dressing with crisp vegetables and tender rotini, it offers a delightful Mediterranean-inspired twist on classic pasta salad.

The image shows a white speckled bowl filled with a creamy pasta salad. The dish has three clear layers: twisted rotini pasta in a light beige shade forms the base, large pieces of cucumber with pale green color and darker green skins are scattered throughout, and a creamy white dressing coats everything evenly. Small bits of red, likely bell pepper, add tiny spots of color, while fresh green herbs sprinkle the top for a fresh look. Cracked black pepper is visible on the surface, giving a speckled dark contrast. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with slices of cucumber and a wooden spoon close by. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces rotini pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
1 cucumber, diced
1 carrot, diced
1/2 sweet onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (can use fire-roasted jarred pepper)
1/2 cup kalamata olives, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1.5 cups plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (use dairy-free yogurt for vegan version)
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 lemon, juiced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain well, set aside, and allow it to cool.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with diced cucumber, carrot, sweet onion, bell pepper, kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to mix.
Step 3: In a mason jar or small bowl, add the Greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, and chopped dill. Shake or whisk well to combine, adding 1 teaspoon of water if the dressing feels too thick.
Step 4: Pour the tzatziki dressing over the pasta salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy chilled.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plain unsweetened dairy-free alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt.
Add chopped fresh mint for an extra burst of freshness in the dressing.
Use fire-roasted bell peppers for a smoky flavor variation.
If you prefer a thinner dressing, add more lemon juice or a splash of water until desired consistency is reached.

Storage

Store the tzatziki pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good toss before serving again. This salad is best served chilled and does not reheat well, so enjoy it cold for optimal flavor and texture.

How to Serve

A white speckled bowl filled with creamy pasta salad sits on a white marbled surface, surrounded by cucumber slices and a wooden spoon. The salad has three main layers: the base layer of short spiral pasta is light beige, mixed with diced red bell pepper pieces; the second layer is thick, white creamy dressing coating the pasta and vegetables; the top layer includes thinly sliced cucumber pieces and fresh green parsley leaves sprinkled all over. Small black pepper flakes are sprinkled on top, adding contrast to the creamy mix. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?

Yes, you can substitute rotini with other short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook and drain them properly before mixing.

How can I make the dressing ahead of time?

You can prepare the tzatziki dressing up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before tossing it with the pasta salad.