Greek Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish full of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and zesty olives, all tossed together with al dente pasta and a delicious homemade dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or a light and healthy lunch. The combination of Mediterranean flavors makes this pasta salad both satisfying and energizing, and it’s so easy to prepare. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful salads.

ingredients

this Recipe

• 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.
• Swap out the feta cheese for goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of the salad.
• Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for a bit of tangy spice.
• Toss in some artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flavor.

storage/reheating

• Store leftover Greek Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating. The flavors actually improve as it sits in the fridge.
• If the salad becomes too dry after refrigeration, add a bit more olive oil or a splash of lemon juice before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, Greek Pasta Salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator and toss it again before serving.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fusilli, bowtie, or spaghetti.

Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this Greek Pasta Salad is vegetarian. For a vegan version, substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative.

How can I make the dressing more flavorful?
Add more lemon juice or a bit of red pepper flakes for extra zing and heat.

Conclusion

Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, full of Mediterranean flavors, and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to grilled meats. With its fresh ingredients and tangy dressing, it’s a salad that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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