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Irresistible Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Irresistible Mediterranean Pasta Salad Fit for Every Occasion

This Irresistible Mediterranean Pasta Salad is bursting with freshness and flavor, perfect for any gathering or weekday meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 14 oz short pasta (like rotini or penne) Avoid long noodles.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 large cucumber Peel and slice into 1/2-inch half-moons for the best texture.
  • 18 oz cherry tomatoes Halve them before adding.
  • 3/4 cup kalamata olives
  • 1/2 medium red onion Thinly sliced.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley Chopped.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup olive oil Extra-virgin for richness.
  • 4 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice For a hint of zest.
  • 2 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 3 cloves garlic Freshly pressed.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust for desired spice level.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk
  • cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

How to Make Irresistible Mediterranean Pasta Salad
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Allow it to sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.
  2. Boil salted water in a large pot and add the pasta. Cook until al dente, following package directions—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes.
  3. While the pasta cooks, chop and slice your cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley to get everything ready for mixing.
  4. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and then rinse briefly with cold water. This helps stop the cooking and removes excess starch.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, transfer the warm pasta and pour the prepared dressing over it. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated.
  6. Next, fold in the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley. Gently toss to distribute all ingredients evenly.
  7. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. You can refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to let the flavors deepen before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta just before serving for a fresh touch.

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