Dive into a bowl of vibrant flavors with our Healthy Greek Pasta Salad featuring a creamy feta dressing that will tantalize your taste buds! Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a picnic delight, this salad is not only packed with wholesome ingredients but is also a feast for the eyes. With just 25 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up a deliciously refreshing dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the Mediterranean goodness and discover why this salad is your new go-to recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into small, uniform cubes, and finely dice the red onion.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. Shake off excess water and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the creamy feta dressing. Whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and red onion to the cooled pasta. Gently toss to distribute the vegetables evenly.
- Pour the creamy feta dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad and gently fold to incorporate.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended for enhanced taste.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing and nutritious main dish or side salad.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: To achieve the perfect texture, cook the whole wheat pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the dressing and vegetables.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making every bite even more delicious.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables you can find for the best taste. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers to elevate your salad.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or swap vegetables according to your preference. Bell peppers, olives, or even artichoke hearts can add a delightful twist.
- Make Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just hold off on adding the feta cheese until you're ready to serve for the best texture.
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light and nutritious dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
