Dinner

Creamy Strawberry Feta Pasta Salad Recipe

ByMaya Arden August 28, 2026August 28, 2026

Introduction

This Creamy Strawberry Feta Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. Combining fresh strawberries, creamy feta, and a tangy yogurt-based dressing, it’s both vibrant and satisfying.

A white bowl filled with a colorful layered salad featuring farfalle pasta mixed with green lettuce and bright red strawberry slices, all coated in a creamy white dressing speckled with poppy seeds. On top, there are three rows of grilled chicken breast slices with a golden brown sear, also drizzled with the creamy dressing. The salad has small bits of white cheese and light-brown almond slices scattered throughout. A gold fork rests inside the bowl on the right side, against a white marbled surface with a soft peach fabric nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2/3 cup (160g) plain Greek yogurt*
1/4 cup (60g/ml) apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup (56g/60ml) extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup (85g) honey

1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (or 1/2 teaspoon ground dry mustard)

1 Tablespoon poppy seeds
1 pound (454g) uncooked pasta*
3 cups (about 150g) chopped romaine lettuce

1–1.5 lbs. (454–681g) fresh strawberries, sliced
3/4 cup (113g) crumbled feta cheese
2 avocados, diced

3/4 cup (85g) sliced almonds
Optional add-ins: chickpeas, grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or cooked salmon

Instructions

Step 1: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water, then set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the dressing by whisking together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds in a medium bowl or measuring cup until smooth and combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta, diced avocados, and sliced almonds. Add any optional proteins like chickpeas, grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon if desired.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the salad and stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan option, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and omit the feta cheese.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.

Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra freshness.
To prevent avocado browning, toss diced avocado with a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It is best enjoyed chilled. When reheating, note that this salad is intended to be served cold, so simply stir well after removing from the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with pasta salad shows layers of small bowtie pasta in a light creamy dressing, mixed evenly with fresh green lettuce pieces, sliced red strawberries, and small white cheese crumbles. There are thin light brown almond slices and black poppy seeds sprinkled on top, adding texture and contrast. Next to the bowl, a smaller white bowl holds whole fresh strawberries. A soft peach cloth is placed underneath with a gold spoon and fork resting on it. Two clear glasses with ice cubes and bubbly water and a small glass of creamy dressing are on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and add delicate ingredients like avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.