Mediterranean Pasta Salad
A vibrant and comforting pasta salad loaded with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base
- 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta A hearty base that holds the flavors beautifully.
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved For sweet bursts of flavor.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced Crunchy and refreshing; feel free to swap with zucchini!
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped Adds a little zing to the mix.
Salad Essentials
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced Essential for that authentic Mediterranean taste.
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled Creamy and tangy; can substitute with a dairy-free option.
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil For richness; consider infused oils like garlic for an extra kick!
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar To brighten up the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano A nod to traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for well-rounded flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole wheat penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
- While the pasta is cooking, grab your chopping board and dice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors meld together while you move on.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving
- Chill for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors develop. Serve this Mediterranean delight cold or at room temperature.
Notes
The salad is versatile; you can add grilled chicken or chickpeas, use fresh herbs, and swap vegetables seasonally. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, ideal to prepare ahead of time.