Introducing the Ultimate Fresh Greek Pasta Salad—a perfect blend of vibrant vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and flavorful Kalamata olives, all tossed in a delicious homemade Greek dressing. This salad is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. The combination of al dente pasta with fresh, crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or a dish for a gathering, this Greek Pasta Salad is sure to impress!
Ingredients for Pasta Salad:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta, rotini, or fusilli
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced (2 cups)
- 10 oz (1 1/2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, any color, seeded and chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (1/3 cup)
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese (1 cup)
- ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, or to taste
- 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped
Ingredients for Greek Salad Dressing:
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 3 garlic cloves, grated or minced
- 1 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 to 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, chopped red onion, crumbled feta, and Kalamata olives.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, dried oregano, grated garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is well emulsified.
- Combine: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to coat evenly. Gently fold in the chopped parsley.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables in this salad provide essential vitamins such as A, C, and K, and minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- High in Fiber: The combination of vegetables and pasta ensures a good intake of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and olives provide monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Protein: Feta cheese adds a source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
Cooking Tips
- Cooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will absorb some of the dressing and remain firm.
- Chopping Vegetables: Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly to allow even distribution and consistent flavor in every bite.
- Emulsifying the Dressing: Slowly drizzle the olive oil into the vinegar mixture while whisking to create a well-emulsified dressing that clings to the pasta and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- For Potlucks and Parties: This salad is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily doubled or tripled to serve more people.
- As a Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. The flavors meld together as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
- Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Ultimate Fresh Greek Pasta Salad is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean. It’s easy to make, highly nutritious, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a dish to share at a gathering, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and fresh, zesty flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, making it a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.