Mediterranean Loaded Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad loaded with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper diced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash and dry all vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion as specified. Slice the olives and chop the fresh parsley and basil.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, crumbled feta, and dressing. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving
- Once rested, remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a good toss. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Storage
- Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Choose the freshest vegetables for the best flavor. Let the salad rest for at least an hour to enhance the taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor. Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta as needed.
How to Serve: Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light main course.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the salad a day ahead to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a different flavor. Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta as needed.
How to Serve: Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light main course.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the salad a day ahead to let the flavors meld together beautifully.