Looking for a vibrant dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite? Look no further than this Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad! Bursting with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, this salad is not just a side dish—it's a celebration of flavor that will transport you straight to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. Dive into this deliciously simple recipe and discover why it’s a must-try for your next meal!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Feta cheese
- Olives
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Oregano
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into small cubes, and finely chop the red onion.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Crumble the feta cheese and slice the olives, then add them to the pasta and vegetable mixture.
- In a small separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and dried oregano to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss all ingredients until well combined and evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste if needed.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like rotini or penne that hold onto the dressing and ingredients well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Prep Ahead: For an even quicker meal, chop your vegetables and prepare the dressing in advance. Just combine everything with the pasta when you're ready to serve.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider tossing in some sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chill for Best Results: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Swap the feta for mozzarella or add grilled chicken for a heartier dish.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
