Description
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, featuring al dente pasta tossed with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from fresh cucumbers and bell peppers, balanced by the creaminess of feta cheese and the tang of olives.
Ingredients
Scale
- Pasta: 8 oz. rotini or penne, cooked al dente
- Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- Cheese: 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Olives: 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Herbs:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Dressing:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, parsley, and basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance; the flavors will deepen as it sits.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 450 milligrams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 8 grams
- Cholesterol: 20 milligrams
Keywords: Mediterranean Pasta Salad, pasta salad, Mediterranean cuisine, healthy salad, summer salad, vegetarian recipes, easy pasta salad, cold pasta salad, fresh ingredients, quick recipes, side dish, meal prep, colorful salad, tangy dressing, feta cheese