Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy Mediterranean Pasta Salad. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy side dish for dinner, this salad combines colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-herb vinaigrette that transforms simple pasta into a delightful feast. In just 15 minutes, you can prepare a dish that is not only refreshing but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy it as a main course or alongside grilled meats and veggies—this versatile salad is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces dry pasta (farfalle preferred)
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2/3 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Juice of half a lemon
- Dried oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While pasta cools, chop cucumber, halve tomatoes, and slice onion.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, honey (or sweetener), garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped vegetables and feta cheese. Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side/Main
- Method: Mixing/Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg