Quick and Easy Pasta Salad That I Cook Again and Again

Craving a refreshing and colorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light lunches?

This Mediterranean pasta salad is just what you need!

With vibrant vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in no time.

Quick and Easy Pasta Salad

This Mediterranean pasta salad is a delightful combination of al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty olive oil dressing. It’s refreshing, light, and packed with flavors that transport you straight to the sunny Mediterranean coast.

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Ingredients

• 8 ounces of rotini or fusilli pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 250kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

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This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also versatile. You can add your favorite ingredients, whether it’s olives, roasted red peppers, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Each bite is bursting with flavor and texture, making it a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and delicious.

The Allure of Mediterranean Flavors

The Mediterranean region is renowned for its vibrant and wholesome cuisine. This pasta salad captures the essence of that culinary tradition with an array of colorful ingredients that are both nutritious and visually appealing.

Cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, contrasting beautifully with the crunch of cucumbers and bell peppers. Kalamata olives add a briny depth, while the creamy feta cheese provides a delightful tang. Together, these elements create a dish that is not only pleasing to the palate but also eye-catching, making it ideal for gatherings.

Fresh Ingredients for a Healthy Meal

Emphasizing fresh produce is key to achieving the best flavor in this salad. Selecting ripe, juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers will ensure that every bite is refreshing. The addition of bell peppers not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant color splash.

Incorporating herbs like parsley elevates the dish, offering a burst of freshness that complements the other ingredients. The careful selection of high-quality olive oil for the dressing ties everything together, providing a rich mouthfeel without overwhelming the salad.

The Perfect Dressing

The dressing is a simple blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano. This combination enhances the salad without overpowering its delicate flavors. A pinch of salt and black pepper can be added to taste, ensuring that the dressing balances the sweetness of the vegetables and the saltiness of the feta cheese.

Whisking together the dressing allows for the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a light and zesty coating that brings the entire dish to life. Allowing the salad to chill after mixing lets these flavors deepen, making each bite even more delightful.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. It shines as a standalone dish for a light lunch or can be a side at summer barbecues. Pair it with grilled meats or seafood to complement its fresh flavors.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional feta and parsley just before serving. This adds a final flourish that enhances both the presentation and flavor profile, inviting guests to enjoy this delicious creation.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Aside from its mouthwatering taste, this pasta salad is packed with health benefits. The inclusion of vegetables contributes vitamins and minerals essential for overall health. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while cucumbers provide hydration and nutrients.

The healthy fats from olives and olive oil promote heart health, and the protein from feta and pasta helps sustain energy levels. This salad strikes a balance between being indulgent and nutritious, making it a smart choice for any meal.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a cozy gathering at home, this Mediterranean pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation makes it a great option for those looking to whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad not only nourishes the body but also brings joy to the dining experience. Serve it in a large bowl, and watch as it becomes the centerpiece of your summer meals.

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