Description

This vibrant Mediterranean pasta salad is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Packed with wholesome ingredients like tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal side dish or even a standalone meal. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added versatility.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

12 oz (340g) short pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped (jarred or homemade)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1 cup cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein

For the Dressing:

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the veggies: While the pasta cooks, prepare the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, roasted red peppers, and olives. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

Whisk the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Combine ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
Add finishing touches: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. If using optional chickpeas or grilled chicken, add them at this stage.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Chill: For best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
Serve: Give the salad a final toss before serving. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of feta if desired.

Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American