Mediterranean Pasta

When the craving hits for something sweet, fresh, and incredibly easy to make, this Tropical Fruit Salad with Whipped Cream and Toasted Coconut never lets me down. It’s the kind of dish I turn to when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy whipped topping, crunchy toasted coconut, and a colorful mix of juicy fruit make this salad a total showstopper — whether it’s served at a brunch table or as a refreshing after-dinner treat.

I love how this fruit salad comes together in no time, and yet feels luxurious and festive. The combination of pineapple, strawberries, raspberries, and kiwi brings a burst of tropical flavor, while the whipped cream adds just the right touch of indulgence. A sprinkle of toasted coconut on top takes everything to the next level. It’s sunshine in a bowl, and I’m always amazed at how quickly it disappears once it’s served.

Why You’ll Love This Tropical Fruit Salad with Whipped Cream and Toasted Coconut

This salad hits all the right notes — sweet, creamy, light, and crunchy. It’s great for summer barbecues, holiday brunches, or even as a simple dessert. You can customize it based on the fruit you have on hand, and it comes together in under 15 minutes. Plus, kids and adults alike adore it.

What Kind of Fruit Should I Use?

You can mix and match fruits depending on the season and your preferences. I love the tropical combo of pineapple, kiwi, strawberries, and raspberries for a vibrant look and refreshing flavor. Mango, papaya, or blueberries would also work beautifully. Just be sure to use ripe, sweet fruit — it makes all the difference.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re looking to adjust for dietary preferences or ingredients on hand, there’s plenty of flexibility. Instead of regular whipped cream, you can use coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version. If you want to cut down on sugar, skip sweetened whipped cream and go with a homemade lightly sweetened version. For texture, you could swap toasted coconut with crushed nuts like macadamia or sliced almonds.

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Ingredients for this Mediterranean Pasta

• Pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle): The base of the dish. These pasta shapes hold onto the dressing and mix-ins beautifully.
• Cherry tomatoes: They burst with sweetness and add a juicy contrast.
• Cucumbers: For crunch and freshness that balance the richness of the olives and cheese.
• Kalamata olives: A salty, briny addition that gives this pasta its Mediterranean flair.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, tangy bite that wakes up the salad.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled on top, it adds creaminess and a signature Mediterranean tang.
• Fresh parsley and basil: For herbaceous brightness that lifts all the other ingredients.
• Extra virgin olive oil: The foundation of the dressing, rich and fruity.
• Red wine vinegar or lemon juice: Adds needed acidity to cut through the oil.
• Garlic: Minced finely to deepen the flavor profile.
• Salt and black pepper: For seasoning and balance.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to package directions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, slice cherry tomatoes in halves, dice the cucumbers, thinly slice red onion, and pit and halve the kalamata olives. If you want a milder onion flavor, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake well until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust acidity or salt as needed.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss well to combine. Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and torn basil leaves. Mix gently to avoid breaking the feta too much.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, let the Mediterranean Pasta Salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

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How Long to Prepare the Mediterranean Pasta

Preparing this Mediterranean Pasta is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Active Prep Time: Chopping veggies, cooking pasta, and assembling the salad takes about 20–25 minutes. This includes boiling time and prepping the dressing.

Passive Time: Once tossed, the pasta benefits from at least 30 minutes of chill time in the fridge to let the flavors meld. You can also make it a day ahead — it tastes even better the next day.

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Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Pasta

• Salt the pasta water generously — this enhances the flavor of the pasta itself.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Aim for al dente to prevent a mushy texture.
• Let the salad rest. Even 30 minutes in the fridge brings out the best flavor.
• Use fresh herbs — dried herbs won’t provide the same freshness and fragrance.
• Balance the dressing — taste before pouring and adjust lemon/vinegar or olive oil as needed.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the rinse: After draining the pasta, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and avoid a sticky texture.
• Using too much dressing: It’s tempting to pour it all in, but start slow. You can always add more.
• Over-mixing: Toss gently, especially after adding feta, so it stays chunky and doesn’t turn creamy.
• Under-seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
• Serving too soon: This salad shines after it chills. Don’t skip that resting time.

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What to Serve With Mediterranean Pasta?

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers

Juicy, marinated chicken skewers are a perfect protein-packed pairing.

2. Roasted Vegetables

A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant complements the Mediterranean flavors.

3. Pita Bread with Hummus

Great for scooping up any leftover bits and a natural match for the dish’s region.

4. Greek Yogurt with Herbs

A creamy side dip that adds a cooling element to the meal.

5. Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Fast-cooked shrimp tossed in lemon and garlic add a bright, savory element to the table.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it ideal for meal prep.

Freezing: Not recommended. The vegetables and pasta don’t hold up well to freezing and thawing.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep all the veggies and dressing ahead, then toss with pasta and cheese before serving for best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Estimates vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

• Calories per serving: ~350
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 520mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long will Mediterranean Pasta last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for 3–4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

What’s the best pasta for this salad?

Short types like rotini, penne, or farfalle work best because they hold the dressing well.

Can I use bottled dressing instead?

You can, but homemade dressing gives you fresher flavor and control over the ingredients.

Is this pasta served warm or cold?

It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, not hot.

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Conclusion

Mediterranean Pasta is the kind of recipe that brings color, flavor, and freshness to your table with minimal effort. It’s a delicious way to enjoy crisp vegetables, salty olives, creamy feta, and herb-infused dressing — all in one bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a go-to favorite.

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