Easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad
A colorful and flavorful pasta salad featuring crunchy vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty dressing, perfect for gatherings or a light meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, setting it aside in a large mixing bowl.
- While the pasta is cooking, chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Toss these colorful veggies into the bowl with the cooled pasta.
- Next, add the sliced Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese into the mix. These ingredients lend a wonderful saltiness and richness that complement the dish perfectly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies, tossing everything gently to ensure a thorough coating.
- Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Notes
Feel free to substitute the pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options. You can replace feta with more olives or a plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version. Always let the pasta cool before mixing with the dressing and veggies. Don't skip the chilling step for the best flavor!