This Tzatziki Pasta Salad is a light, refreshing dish loaded with fresh vegetables, bright herbs, and a creamy, tangy tzatziki dressing. It’s the perfect vegetarian side dish for BBQs, cookouts, potlucks, or just as a delicious meal on its own. The combination of rotini pasta, cucumbers, olives, and dill in the creamy yogurt dressing makes it both satisfying and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta salad is incredibly easy to make, yet bursting with flavor from the Mediterranean-inspired tzatziki dressing. The fresh vegetables add crunch and color, while the dressing is rich and tangy. Plus, it’s customizable—whether you’re serving it at a party or making it for a family meal, it’s sure to please everyone. It’s perfect for warm weather and can be made ahead of time for convenience!
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
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16 ounces rotini pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
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1 cucumber, diced
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1 carrot, diced
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½ sweet onion, diced
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1 bell pepper, diced (can use fire-roasted jarred pepper)
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½ cup kalamata olives, chopped
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½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Tzatziki Dressing:
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1 ½ cups plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version)
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½ lemon, juiced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill or ½ teaspoon dried dill
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool. -
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced cucumbers, carrots, onion, bell pepper, kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. Toss well to combine. -
Make the Tzatziki Dressing
In a mason jar (or a bowl), add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, and fresh dill. Shake well to combine, adding 1 teaspoon of water if the dressing is too thick. -
Combine the Pasta and Dressing
Pour the tzatziki dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated. -
Chill & Serve
Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 8 servings
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein – To make this a more filling meal, add some grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
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Extra Veggies – Add other vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach for more flavor and color.
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Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy twist.
Storage
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Storing Leftovers – Store the leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Make Ahead – This pasta salad can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge to allow the flavors to develop even more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta would work well.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
How long can I store this pasta salad?
This pasta salad will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. The veggies may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days.
Can I freeze this pasta salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze pasta salad, as the texture of the vegetables and pasta may change once thawed. It’s best served fresh or within a few days of making.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried dill instead of fresh dill. Just use about ½ teaspoon of dried dill in place of the 2 tablespoons of fresh dill.
Conclusion
This Tzatziki Pasta Salad is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy tzatziki dressing, fresh vegetables, and pasta, it’s a great addition to your next BBQ, cookout, or potluck. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient and delicious choice for any summer gathering!
Print
Tzatziki Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Tzatziki Pasta Salad is a refreshing and creamy vegetarian dish that’s perfect for BBQs, cookouts, and potlucks. Loaded with fresh vegetables, bright herbs, and a tangy tzatziki dressing made with Greek yogurt, it’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that combines Mediterranean flavors with a fun pasta twist.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta Salad:
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16 ounces rotini pasta (use gluten-free if needed)
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1 cucumber, diced
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1 carrot, diced
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½ sweet onion, diced
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1 bell pepper, diced (fire-roasted jarred peppers can be used as a substitute)
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½ cup kalamata olives, chopped
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½ cup fresh parsley
- For the Tzatziki Dressing:
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1 ½ cups plain unsweetened Greek yogurt (use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version)
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½ lemon, juiced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill (or ½ teaspoon dried)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced cucumbers, carrots, onion, bell pepper, kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. Toss to combine.
Make the Tzatziki Dressing: In a mason jar (or bowl), add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, and fresh dill. Shake or whisk well to combine. If the dressing is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of water to loosen it up.
Combine the Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss well to coat the ingredients evenly.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free yogurt to make this salad vegan-friendly.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead of time. It tastes even better as it sits and absorbs the flavors!
Optional Add-Ins: Feel free to add feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
