Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a delicious and healthy recipe that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s packed with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, and mixed with tangy feta cheese and olives. The pasta is dressed with a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano and basil. The combination of flavors creates a refreshing and satisfying salad that’s perfect for warm weather.

This recipe is also very easy to make and can be prepared in advance for meal prep. Simply cook the pasta and chop the vegetables, then mix everything together and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can also customize this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables or protein sources like chicken or shrimp. Overall, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and healthy meal that is bursting with flavor, then a Mediterranean pasta salad is a perfect choice. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a refreshing and light meal that is full of healthy ingredients. In this article, we will be sharing a step-by-step guide on how to make a delicious Mediterranean pasta salad that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

Before we begin, here are the ingredients you will need:

• 8 oz. pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper

Instructions:

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s start cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Once it’s cooked, drain the water and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the rest of the ingredients. Chop the Kalamata olives, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped Kalamata olives, diced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped fresh parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Once it’s chilled, serve the Mediterranean pasta salad and enjoy!

Variations:

This recipe is very versatile and can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Swap out the Kalamata olives for black olives. Add some diced cucumber for extra crunch.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a Mediterranean pasta salad is a delicious and healthy meal that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you can enjoy a refreshing and flavorful dish that is packed with nutrients. So, why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills?

FAQs:

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne or fusilli work well for this recipe.

3. Can I omit the feta cheese?
Yes, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes, but it may affect the overall flavor and texture of the salad.

5. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to add any other vegetables you like, such as diced bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or roasted eggplant.