Description
Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice, cooked and cooled
1 pint cherry tomatoes (red and yellow), halved
1 cup cucumber, sliced
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup kalamata and green olives, halved
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
3 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
⅓ cup olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Garnish and chill: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook & Cool the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 oz of pasta and cook until al dente, following package directions. Immediately drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures your salad isn’t gummy.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine ⅓ cup olive oil, 3 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, ½ tsp dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified.
3. Chop & Combine Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and halve the olives. Add these to a large mixing bowl along with the cooled pasta and ½ cup crumbled feta cheese.
4. Assemble & Marinate: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Using large spoons or tongs, gently toss everything until evenly coated. Fold in the chopped fresh parsley and basil, reserving a little for garnish.
5. Chill & Serve: For optimal flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as a main dish for a light lunch or a substantial side. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or lamb chops. It’s perfect for picnics and potlucks—transport it in a sealed container. For presentation, serve on a large platter over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach and garnish with extra herbs and a lemon wedge.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool pasta. Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and herbs for the dressing. Combine pasta with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta. Toss with dressing, add fresh herbs, and chill before serving for maximum flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. If possible, add the fresh herbs just before serving for the brightest flavor.
What other pasta shapes work well? Short, sturdy shapes like fusilli, farfalle (bow-tie), or penne are excellent as they hold the dressing and ingredients well.
How can I make this vegan? Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan feta alternative or creamy chickpeas for protein.
My salad seems dry after chilling. What happened? Pasta absorbs liquid. Before serving, give it a good stir and drizzle with a little extra olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to refresh it.
Can I use a different vinegar? Yes. White wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice are great substitutes for red wine vinegar, offering a slightly different but equally delicious tang.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta will ruin the salad’s texture. Always cook to al dente and rinse with cold water immediately.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Serving immediately doesn’t allow the flavors to develop. The 30-minute chill is crucial for the best taste.
- Using Pre-Crumbled Feta: For superior flavor and texture, buy a block of feta and crumble it yourself.
- Not Tossing Thoroughly: Ensure every component is evenly coated with the dressing for a consistent flavor in every bite.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a reliable, vibrant dish that delivers fresh flavors and satisfying textures with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, its flexibility allows for endless customization based on your preferences or what’s in season. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing salad that truly captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!