Name: Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe with Homemade Dressing
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-481654H48M1S
Ingredients: ¼ cup olive oil; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ lb pasta (fusilli or penne recommended); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the epitome of a refreshing summer dish, combining the robust flavors of the Mediterranean with the lightness of a pasta salad. Ideal for potlucks, outdoor gatherings, or as a vibrant side dish, this recipe is not only easy to make but also visually appealing and packed with nutrients. With a harmonious mix of tangy feta, sweet tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and the bold taste of Kalamata olives, each bite brings a burst of flavor that complements a variety of main courses.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

½ lb pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set this aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. This helps in keeping the pasta firm and prevents it from absorbing too much dressing.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss these ingredients to distribute evenly.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together to ensure that the pasta and vegetables are well-coated with the dressing. This integration helps every ingredient to shine through with its unique flavor.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and color. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to combine harmoniously and the pasta to absorb the dressing, enhancing the overall taste.

Variation

For a protein-rich version, add grilled chicken or chunks of seared tuna to the salad. For a vegetarian boost, chickpeas are an excellent addition.

Cooking Note

Ensure that the pasta is not overcooked to maintain a good texture in the salad, which contrasts nicely with the softer textures of the tomatoes and cucumber.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is perfect as a standalone meal for lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood at a barbecue. It also pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.

Tips

To keep the salad fresh, add the feta cheese and parsley just before serving.
If making ahead, reserve some dressing to add right before serving, as the pasta tends to absorb it over time.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cooking Time

10 minutes

Total Time

20 minutes plus chilling

Nutritional Information

Calories: 290 per serving
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Q: Can this pasta salad be made gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Q: How long can I store Mediterranean Pasta Salad?
A: This salad can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing may settle at the bottom.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or need a quick and nutritious side dish, this salad is sure to delight. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a popular choice for any meal.