Mediterranean Pasta Salad – A Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy Dish

This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for those who love fresh, vibrant flavors. Combining pasta, crisp cucumbers, red onion, and crumbled goat cheese, this salad brings together the best of Mediterranean ingredients in one bowl. The tangy lemon dressing made with olive oil, oregano, and garlic powder adds just the right amount of zing, making every bite refreshing and satisfying. It's great as a quick lunch, a side dish, or even as a crowd-pleasing option for picnics and gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding cherry tomatoes, olives, or even chickpeas for extra protein. It’s an effortless yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a warm day or a busy week.

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 oz) box of pasta (shape of your choice)
  
  

• 1-2 lemons, juiced
  
  

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  
  

• 1 cup mini cucumbers, diced
  
  

• 1 red onion, diced
  
  

• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
  
  

• 1 tbsp dried oregano
  
  

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
   
   

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced cucumbers, diced red onion, and crumbled goat cheese.
   
   

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and garlic powder until well combined.
   
   

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.
   
   

5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
   
   

6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
   
   

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: 240 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 30g
  
  

• Protein: 6g
  
  

• Fat: 12g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 3g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 10mg
  
  

• Sodium: 160mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 3g