Crafting a Greek Pasta Salad is like taking a culinary trip to the Mediterranean, where the flavors are vibrant, the ingredients are fresh and each bite is a celebration of culture and tradition. This salad combines the hearty textures of pasta with the crisp freshness of vegetables, all brought together by the tangy zest of feta cheese and olives, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, for sweetness and color
- 1 cucumber, diced, for crunch
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced, for a sharp bite
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted, for a briny depth
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled, for tangy creaminess
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced, for sweetness and crunch
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for freshness
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped, for an aromatic lift
For the Greek Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, for a smooth base
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, for acidity
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, for brightness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced, for flavor
- 1 tsp dried oregano, for herbal notes
- Salt and pepper, to taste, for seasoning
Cooking steps
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, prepare the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper and olives. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
Combine: Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl with the prepared vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Add Cheese and Herbs: Add the crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley and dill to the salad. Gently toss to distribute the cheese and herbs throughout the salad.
Chill: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tips
- Dressing: Make the Greek dressing from scratch to control the quality and adjust the flavors to your liking. A good quality extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar are key to a flavorful dressing. Consider making the dressing in advance to let the flavors meld.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and dill are crucial for adding freshness and depth. If you have access to fresh oregano, it can make a wonderful addition too. Be generous with these for a burst of flavor.
This Greek Pasta Salad recipe encapsulates the essence of Greek cuisine through its vibrant flavors, making it an ideal dish for any occasion that calls for a touch of Mediterranean flair.
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