Greek Pasta Salad 

This vibrant Greek Pasta Salad combines al dente farfalle pasta with fresh vegetables, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty homemade Greek dressing. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect as a side or a light main course. Ideal for meal prep, picnics, or summer gatherings, this salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. 

Ingredients (Serves 8)

For the Salad:

• 16 oz (1 lb) farfalle (bowtie) pasta

• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved

• 1½ cups English cucumber, sliced into thick rounds, then quartered

• 1 large green bell pepper, diced (about 1½ cups)

• ½ cup diced red onion

• ¼ cup sliced Kalamata olives, drained

• ¼ cup sliced black olives, drained

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

• ⅔ cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Greek Salad Dressing:

• ⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar

• ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the grape tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, red onion, and fresh parsley.

3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables, olives, and parsley.

4. Make the Dressing: In a mason jar or small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

5. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

6. Add Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and give the salad a final gentle toss.

7. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 386 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 45 g

• Protein: 9 g

• Total Fat: 18 g

  • Saturated Fat: 3 g

• Cholesterol: 10 mg

• Sodium: 380 mg

• Potassium: 400 mg

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 5 g

• Vitamin A: 15% DV

• Vitamin C: 20% DV

• Calcium: 10% DV

• Iron: 8% DV