PASTA SALAD
This Pasta Salad is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. The combination of colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing makes it both delicious and visually appealing.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
3 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini, penne, or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Method:
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the olives.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
Add Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine. Ensure all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a final toss and garnish with chopped parsley or basil.
Tips:
You can customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or different types of cheese.
For extra crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds.
If you prefer a creamy pasta salad, you can add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
This Pasta Salad is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. The combination of colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing makes it both delicious and visually appealing.
