Description
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work well)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook & Cool Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of penne or rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain immediately and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. Prepare Vegetables & Cheese: While the pasta cools, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, dice 1 cucumber, and thinly slice 1/2 a red onion. Slice 1/4 cup each of kalamata and green olives. Crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until emulsified.
4. Combine: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled pasta, prepared tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta cheese.
5. Toss & Garnish: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it chilled as a standalone light lunch. It pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb kebabs for a complete dinner. For a picnic or potluck, pack it in a sealed container and keep it cool. You can also bulk it up by adding canned chickpeas or flaked tuna for extra protein.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool pasta. Chop fresh vegetables and olives, and crumble feta. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings for the dressing. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and garnish with fresh parsley. Chill before serving for best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. Prepare and combine all ingredients, but for the best texture, add the dressing 1-2 hours before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
What are good pasta substitutes? For a gluten-free option, use chickpea or lentil pasta. Whole wheat pasta also works well. For a lower-carb version, try using chopped cauliflower or broccoli florets.
How long will leftovers keep? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers will keep for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld and improve overnight.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. While feta is traditional, you can substitute with cubed mozzarella (bocconcini), goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
How can I make the salad more flavorful? Let the dressed salad marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Adding a pinch of lemon zest, a clove of minced garlic, or a handful of fresh basil to the dressing can also enhance the taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta will ruin the salad’s texture. Cook only to al dente and rinse with cold water immediately.
- Skipping the Rinse: Rinsing stops the cooking and removes excess starch, preventing the pasta from clumping together.
- Dressing While Hot: Adding dressing to warm pasta will cause it to absorb too much oil and become gummy. Ensure everything is completely cool.
- Underseasoning: Pasta salads need bold seasoning. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar just before serving.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors that comes together in just 20 minutes. It’s a reliable recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. By following the simple steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a delicious, healthy dish that is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean anytime.