If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together a rainbow of fresh ingredients with a creamy, tangy dressing, look no further than this vibrant Protein Pasta Salad with Feta, Salami, and Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of hearty protein pasta, savory salami, salty feta, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a luscious Greek yogurt-based dressing that keeps things light yet indulgent. Perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a colorful side at your next gathering, this salad is a sure crowd-pleaser that balances texture and taste with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl is filled with colorful layered salad ingredients arranged in separate sections. Starting from the top left, there are dark purple olive slices, followed by a pile of creamy light beige sauce mixed with small white cheese cubes. Next to the sauce, vibrant green cucumber slices are stacked, and on the bottom right side, thin slices of pinkish-red cured meat are visible. Below the cured meat, bright yellow bell pepper pieces add color, while in the center, chopped green onions are sprinkled over red cherry tomato halves that fill the bottom left section. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to making this salad shine. Each component adds its own unique touch—whether it’s the creamy feta, the salty punch of salami, or the fresh crunch of cucumbers—that elevates the entire dish beyond a typical pasta salad.

8 oz Barilla protein pasta: A great base that boosts the protein content and offers a satisfying bite.
2 Persian cucumbers (cut into half slices): Their crispness and mild flavor bring refreshing texture and color.
8 oz cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten every forkful.
1/4 cup kalamata olives (sliced): Adds a briny, savory note that deepens the flavor profile.
2 green onions (sliced thin): Offers a gentle sharpness without overpowering the other tastes.
4 oz feta cheese (cubed small or crumbled): The creamy, tangy star that complements the salami beautifully.
3 oz salami (cut into thin strips): Provides a smoky, meaty richness that rounds out the salad.
1/2 bell pepper (diced, yellow or orange): Adds a pop of sweetness and gorgeous color.
2/3 cup creamy Italian salad dressing with Greek yogurt: This dressing ties everything together with its tangy creaminess and healthful twist.

How to Make Protein Pasta Salad with Feta, Salami, and Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Start by boiling the protein pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain it in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool it off. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from sticking together, ensuring a perfect texture for your salad.

Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the cooked protein pasta, crisp Persian cucumbers, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, flavorful salami strips, sliced kalamata olives, and delicate green onions. This colorful, textural mix forms the base of your salad’s bold personality.

Step 3: Add the Dressing

Pour in about two-thirds of the creamy Italian salad dressing with Greek yogurt. This coating infuses the ingredients with a tangy, smooth flavor without being too heavy. Use a rubber spatula or a large spoon to gently mix everything until it’s evenly coated.

Step 4: Finish with Feta and Final Dressing Touch

Sprinkle the salad generously with the cubed or crumbled feta cheese, then add the remaining dressing cautiously so you don’t overwhelm the salad. Give it one gentle toss just to incorporate the feta so its creamy texture pops through the salad without breaking apart too much.

Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately

You can serve this protein pasta salad right away for maximum freshness and crunch, or refrigerate it to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. It stores well in an airtight container for up to five days, making it fantastic for make-ahead meals or packed lunches.

How to Serve Protein Pasta Salad with Feta, Salami, and Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful pasta salad sits on a round wooden board over a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: the base layer is light brown spiral pasta, mixed with bright red cherry tomato halves and green cucumber slices scattered evenly. The middle layer has pieces of thin pink salami, chunks of white cheese, and small bits of yellow bell pepper. The top layer is sprinkled with finely chopped fresh green herbs, adding a fresh touch. A silver spoon with engraved designs rests inside the bowl, and a white cloth with blue stripes is folded in the background on the white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Supercharge the presentation and flavor by garnishing with a few extra kalamata olives, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, or a handful of chopped fresh parsley or basil. These touches add visual appeal and aromatic freshness that elevate every forkful.

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with warm pita bread, a crusty baguette, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal. Its versatility also makes it a great companion to grilled chicken or fish, balancing richness with its bright, creamy dressing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your salad in individual mason jars for easy grab-and-go portions or layer it in a glass trifle bowl to show off its beautiful colors. You could even stuff it into bell pepper halves or pita pockets for a handheld delight that’s perfect for picnics or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen after sitting for a few hours, but the salad still stays fresh and delightful for up to five days. Just give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, this particular salad doesn’t freeze well. The texture of the cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta can become watery or grainy after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you’re using it as a side dish for a warm meal, simply let it sit out for a few minutes before serving to remove any chill.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While protein pasta enhances the nutritional value and texture, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works wonderfully in this salad.

Is there a substitute for salami?

If you prefer a milder or vegetarian option, consider using grilled tofu strips, roasted chickpeas, or even diced turkey breast for a similar protein boost without the pork flavor.

Can I make the dressing from scratch?

Yes! You can whip up your own creamy Italian dressing by mixing Greek yogurt with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a fresh, homemade touch.

How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the Protein Pasta Salad with Feta, Salami, and Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe stays fresh for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prepping or leftovers.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced radishes, shredded carrots, or baby spinach. Just be mindful of extra moisture they may add and adjust the dressing accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Protein Pasta Salad with Feta, Salami, and Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe is like opening a vibrant box of flavors and textures that come together beautifully in one bowl. It’s simple, nutritious, and bursting with personality—perfect for anyone who loves meals that feel both comforting and fresh. Give it a try soon, and watch it become your go-to salad for lunch, dinner, or entertaining guests with effortless style.