Fresh Greek Pasta Salad
If you're looking for a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying, the Ultimate Fresh Greek Pasta Salad is your go-to recipe. Combining the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with the heartiness of pasta, this salad is perfect for any occasion—be it a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a potluck gathering. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious, wholesome salad in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Ultimate Fresh Greek Pasta Salad, gather the following ingredients:
- Pasta: 2 cups of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work great)
- Cucumber: 1 large, diced
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Red Onion: 1/2, thinly sliced
- Kalamata Olives: 1/2 cup, pitted and halved
- Feta Cheese: 1 cup, crumbled
- Bell Peppers: 1, chopped (red, yellow, or green)
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
- Red Wine Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta first, following the directions on the package. To give your salad the ideal texture, make sure it's al dente. Once cooked, immediately stop the cooking process and let the pasta cool by draining and rinsing it under cold water. Put it away.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
While the pasta is cooking, chop your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion thinly, chop the bell pepper, and halve the Kalamata olives. Having all your veggies prepped and ready will make assembling the salad a breeze.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is the heart of your Greek pasta salad, offering a zesty and tangy flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients will make this salad look as good as it tastes.
5. Chill and Serve:
Before serving, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the greatest flavor.
This allows the dressing to infuse into the pasta and vegetables. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for an added burst of freshness.
Tips for Making the Perfect Greek Pasta Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference in this salad. Opt for ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a good-quality olive oil for the best results.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other Mediterranean favorites like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled chicken to make it more substantial.
- Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep. Make it the night before, and the flavors will be even more pronounced the next day.
- Serving Suggestions: This Greek pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a stand-alone dish for a light meal. Serve it with warm pita bread and hummus for a complete Mediterranean feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ultimate Fresh Greek Pasta Salad is not just easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It’s light yet filling, making it ideal for any time of the year. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tangy feta, and the zesty homemade dressing makes each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at a family barbecue or bringing it to a picnic.
In just a few steps, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The Ultimate Fresh Greek Pasta Salad is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. So, the next time you’re in need of a quick and tasty dish, give this salad a try—you won’t be disappointed!
