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Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe: Fresh, Zesty, and Easy to Make

Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe: Fresh, Zesty, and Easy to Make

Description

Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re in the mood for a refreshing, vibrant, and easy-to-make meal, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. Packed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette, this dish will bring the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, side dish, or a meal prep option, this pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful dish!

Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 12 ounces of dry pasta (farfalle or rotini works well)
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 2/3 cup sliced kalamata olives
  • 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 medium red onion, peeled and thinly sliced

Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or your preferred sweetener)
  • 2 small garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

 

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta in a large pot of generously salted water. Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water for 20-30 seconds to cool it down.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, honey, minced garlic, and spices until fully combined.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Add the cooled pasta, vegetables, and sliced kalamata olives to the mixing bowl. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra feta cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Equipment

Notes

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors of the dressing.
  • Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Make It a Full Meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to transform this salad into a hearty main course.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/mediterranean-pasta-salad-recipe-fresh-zesty-and-easy-to-make/