Description
Dive into the refreshing world of Mediterranean Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This delightful salad features al dente pasta tossed with crisp vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or prepping for the week ahead, this salad strikes the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, it’s versatile enough to be served as a side or main dish. Enjoy the burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dry pasta (farfalli recommended)
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2/3 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 1 tablespoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey (or your desired sweetener)
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While pasta cooks, prepare vegetables: dice cucumber, halve tomatoes, and slice onion. Combine in a mixing bowl with olives.
- In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, honey/sweetener, garlic cloves, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes until emulsified.
- Add drained pasta to the vegetable mix. Pour dressing over and toss gently to combine. Top with feta cheese and stir lightly.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding grilled chicken or other seasonal vegetables. For an extra kick of flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or basil.