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Mediterranean Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean Pasta Salad packed with fresh veggies, olives, and feta, perfect for any gathering or meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 14 oz rotini or penne pasta Use any pasta you like, but these shapes are perfect for catching all the dressing.

Vegetables

  • 1 large cucumber Crisp and refreshing, add a wonderful crunch.
  • 18 oz cherry tomatoes Halve them to let their juices mingle with the pasta.
  • 1/2 medium red onion Thinly sliced for extra zing.

Canned Goods

  • 3/4 cup Kalamata olives Rich and salty; black olives can work as a substitute.

Cheese

  • 5 oz crumbled feta cheese The creamy saltiness ties everything together.

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Feel free to swap in basil or arugula.
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano A key herb for Mediterranean flavor.
  • 3 cloves minced garlic Adds depth and aroma.
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust according to your taste.
  • red pepper flakes to taste red pepper flakes For a bit of heat.

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil High-quality olive oil makes a difference!
  • 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar Its tang complements the olive oil beautifully.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Fresh squeezed is best!
  • 1 tablespoon honey A touch of sweetness; use maple syrup for vegan option.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
  • While the pasta is cooking, chop your cucumber, halve your cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, oregano, pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust if needed.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and drizzle a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Let it cool fully.

Mixing

  • In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, onion, parsley, and feta.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and gently combine everything.

Chilling and Serving

  • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Serve it chilled on its own or paired with grilled chicken or shrimp.

Notes

Keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container. Best enjoyed cold.
Keyword Healthy, Meal Prep, Mediterranean, Pasta Salad, Vegetarian