Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Packed with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of light and satisfying. With juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta tossed in a zesty homemade dressing, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for a summer barbecue, or a make-ahead meal for busy days, this salad is a delicious and versatile option. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!
Ingredients:
12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice (cooked and cooled)
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved, mix of red and yellow)
½ cucumber (chopped)
½ cup black olives (sliced)
½ cup green olives (sliced)
¼ cup red onion (finely diced)
½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried oregano
1 clove garlic (minced)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Top with crumbled feta cheese.
Let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to absorb the flavors.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Use Al Dente Pasta : Cook the pasta until just tender but still firm to hold up in the dressing without getting mushy.
Rinse with Cold Water : After cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
Let It Marinate:Allow the salad to sit for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to absorb all the flavors.
Customize It :Add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Make It Ahead: This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
(Serving size: 1 cup)
Calories: ~250-300 kcal
Protein: ~7g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fat: ~10-12g
Fiber: ~3-4g
Sodium: Varies based on olives and feta