Description
2 cups cooked rotini or bowtie pasta
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Honey-Lemon Dressing:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, cucumber, feta cheese, dried cranberries, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Kcal: 280 per serving | Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pasta salad every time. First, cook your rotini or bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. While the pasta cools, prepare your vegetables and other ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, dice the cucumber, and slice the Kalamata olives. Crumble the feta cheese and chop the fresh parsley. Place all these ingredients, along with the dried cranberries and cooled pasta, into a large mixing bowl. For the dressing, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and dried oregano in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every component is coated. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pasta salad is excellent as a standalone light lunch or a vibrant side dish. For a summer barbecue, serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or burgers. To make it a more substantial meal, add a protein like grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or shredded rotisserie chicken. It pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes like hummus, pita bread, and tzatziki. For presentation, garnish with extra crumbled feta, a sprinkle of parsley, or a few whole cranberries.
How-to Summary
Quickly summarize the process: Cook and cool pasta. Chop all fresh ingredients (tomatoes, onion, cucumber, olives, parsley). Whisk dressing ingredients in a separate bowl. Combine everything in a large bowl, toss with dressing, and chill before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve with time. If it seems dry after chilling, add a small drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice before serving.
What are good pasta substitutes? Any short pasta with good texture works well, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle. For a gluten-free option, use a chickpea or lentil-based pasta.
How can I make this recipe vegan? Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Ensure the honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the dressing vegan.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, spinach, or roasted red peppers would be excellent additions. Feel free to customize based on your preferences.
Why is my pasta salad dry or bland? This usually means the dressing wasn’t sufficient or wasn’t mixed thoroughly. Ensure you whisk the dressing well to emulsify it and toss the salad thoroughly. Always adjust seasoning with salt and pepper just before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm pasta, as it will absorb too much dressing and become mushy. Always cool it completely. Do not oversalt the dressing before tasting, as the feta and olives already add saltiness. Do not skip the chilling step; it is crucial for flavor development. Finally, avoid over-mixing the salad once the feta is added to prevent it from breaking down too much.
Conclusion
This Honey-Lemon Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, offering a refreshing and satisfying dish with minimal effort. Its combination of simple ingredients and make-ahead convenience makes it an ideal choice for busy weekdays, potlucks, or elegant gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. Enjoy this delicious and colorful addition to your culinary repertoire.
