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

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.
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.
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.
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.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra feta cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

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.