Introduction
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors, and nothing captures the essence of the season quite like a Mediterranean Pasta Salad. This dish is a delightful combination of colorful vegetables, hearty pasta, and a tangy dressing that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients
To create this refreshing salad, you’ll need:
- 8 oz. pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Pit and halve the Kalamata olives, and crumble the feta cheese.
- Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side to complement your favorite grilled meats.
Tips
- Make it your own: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients. Try adding artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled zucchini for an extra layer of flavor.
- Protein boost: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Storage: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or picnics.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that brings a burst of freshness and flavor to any meal. Perfect for hot summer days, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean, right from the comfort of your home!
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