Description
2 cups cooked rotini or bowtie pasta
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Honey-Lemon Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by cooking your rotini or bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking, and let it cool completely.
2. While the pasta cools, prepare your vegetables and other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, slice the Kalamata olives, crumble the feta, and chop the fresh parsley.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and parsley.
4. To make the dressing, add the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified and smooth.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for a minimum of 15 minutes. For best results, let it chill for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to fully meld.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standout side dish at summer barbecues, potlucks, or picnics. For a satisfying light lunch, add a protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or flaked tuna. It also pairs beautifully with simple grilled meats like lemon-herb chicken or lamb chops. For presentation, garnish with extra crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil just before serving.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool pasta. Chop all fresh ingredients. Whisk dressing ingredients until emulsified. Combine everything in a large bowl, toss with dressing, and chill before serving to enhance the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta 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 parsley just before serving for the best color and flavor.
What are good substitutes for dried cranberries?
Dried cherries, chopped apricots, or even raisins would work well. For a less sweet profile, try sun-dried tomatoes.
How can I prevent the pasta from becoming soggy?
Ensure the pasta is rinsed with cold water after cooking to remove excess starch and stop the cooking process. Also, make sure it is completely cool before adding the dressing.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free or vegan?
Yes. Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan feta alternative. For the dressing, ensure your Dijon mustard and other ingredients are vegan-friendly (some honeys are not considered vegan, so you could use maple syrup or agave nectar instead).
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Any short pasta with good “scooping” texture will work, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free varieties are excellent alternatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding the dressing to warm pasta, as it will absorb too much and become mushy. Do not skip the chilling time; it’s crucial for flavor development. Be cautious with salt, as both the feta cheese and Kalamata olives contribute saltiness. Finally, do not over-mix the salad after adding the feta, as it can break down too much and become pasty.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, all brought together by a simple, homemade honey-lemon dressing. It’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and reliably delicious for any occasion. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a crowd-pleasing dish that might just become your new go-to recipe.
