Gremolata Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a pasta salad that’s anything but ordinary, this Gremolata Pasta Salad will brighten your plate with fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and crunchy veggies. It’s the perfect side dish for spring picnics, summer barbecues, or a refreshing light lunch you can enjoy all year round.
What is Gremolata?
Gremolata is a vibrant Italian condiment made with three simple ingredients: parsley, lemon zest, and garlic. Traditionally used to garnish rich dishes like osso buco, it adds brightness and punch to whatever it’s paired with. In this recipe, we turn gremolata into a bold dressing that coats tender pasta and crisp vegetables, turning a humble salad into a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad
✅ Fresh and Zesty – Lemon zest and garlic bring life to every bite.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and ready in under 30 minutes.
✅ Customizable – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – It tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients That Shine
This dish brings together classic pasta salad staples with a refreshing gremolata twist:
- Short pasta (like fusilli or penne) to catch the zesty dressing
- Fresh vegetables: cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion
- Salty accents like olives, capers, and optional feta
- A homemade gremolata dressing packed with lemon zest and garlic
Serving Suggestions
Gremolata Pasta Salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or Mediterranean dishes. It’s also a great make-ahead option for:
- 🌞 Outdoor gatherings like picnics and potlucks
- 🍴 Lunches on the go (just pack it in a mason jar!)
- 🍷 Light dinners with a glass of white wine or sparkling water
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The gremolata flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better! If you’re prepping ahead, keep the gremolata separate and toss before serving for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Gremolata Pasta Salad is a refreshing twist on a summertime classic—simple to make, bursting with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 oz (340g) short pasta (like fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tbsp capers (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Gremolata:
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. - Make the gremolata:
In a bowl, mix parsley, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. - Assemble the salad:
Combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and capers in a large bowl. Add the gremolata and toss well. - Season & finish:
Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Top with feta if using. Chill before serving.
💡 Notes
- Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier version.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Nutrition (optional – adjust per your ingredients)
- Calories: ~320 per serving
- Carbs: ~40g
- Protein: ~8g
- Fat: ~14g
