Name: Pasta Salad: 7 Simple Steps to a Delightful Dish!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

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Oh, let me tell you about my *go-to* pasta salad! This dish is like a burst of sunshine on a plate, with its vibrant colors from fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing that dances on your taste buds. It’s the ultimate Mediterranean delight, perfect for those busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings with friends. I love how quick and easy it is to whip up, yet it still feels special. And guess what? You can mix and match veggies or add proteins to fit your mood! Whether you serve it as a side or a main dish, this pasta salad is sure to impress while keeping things light and healthy. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

pasta salad - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 cups pasta (I love using fusilli or penne for their perfect bite!)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (they add such a sweet pop!)
1 cup cucumber, diced (fresh and crunchy, just the way I like it)
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (for a little zing)
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (I usually go with red or yellow for sweetness)
1/4 cup black olives, sliced (they’re a must for that Mediterranean flair)
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (oh, the creaminess is divine!)
1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin gives the best flavor)
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (for that zesty kick)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (a sprinkle of herb goodness)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on seasoning!)

How to Prepare Pasta Salad

Making this pasta salad is like a little culinary dance that’s both easy and oh-so-satisfying! Let’s get started on crafting this refreshing dish step by step.

Cooking the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is crucial because it flavors the pasta as it cooks! Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. You want it to have a little bite, so keep an eye on it. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

Combining Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and black olives. Gently toss everything together to ensure each ingredient is well distributed while keeping their lovely textures intact. I like to use my hands for this—it’s the best way to feel the freshness!

Making the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This dressing is where the magic happens—make sure to taste as you go to find that perfect balance of flavors. You want it zesty and bright to complement the veggies!

Final Assembly

Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture, then toss gently to coat everything evenly. This is where you get that lovely shine on your pasta! Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and give it one last gentle toss. Serve immediately for the best flavor, or let it chill for about 30 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Typically, a serving of this pasta salad (about 1 cup) contains approximately 220 calories, 12g of fat, 6g of protein, and 24g of carbohydrates. It’s a delightful and healthy option to enjoy without the guilt!

Tips for Success

To make your pasta salad absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips! First, always use high-quality olive oil; it really elevates the flavor. When choosing your vegetables, go for the freshest ones you can find—farmer’s markets are a goldmine for that. Don’t skip the salt when cooking the pasta; it makes a world of difference! I also recommend letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to mingle and develop those amazing flavors. Lastly, for a fun presentation, serve it in a big, colorful bowl and top with extra feta and fresh herbs for that wow factor!

Variations of Pasta Salad

Oh, the possibilities with pasta salad are endless! For a twist, try adding diced avocado for creaminess or toss in some artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair. You can swap out the feta for goat cheese or even mozzarella balls for a different texture. Feeling adventurous? Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach for some greens! If you want to pack in the protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas work wonderfully. And don’t forget about the herbs—fresh basil, parsley, or dill can really brighten up the dish and elevate those flavors. Get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic side dish or a light main course! Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a protein boost that complements the Mediterranean flavors. It also goes wonderfully with garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette to soak up any leftover dressing. And don’t forget a refreshing drink—how about a crisp white wine or a sparkling lemonade? For presentation, serve your pasta salad in a large, vibrant bowl, and sprinkle some extra feta and fresh herbs on top. Trust me, it’ll look as amazing as it tastes, and your guests will be impressed!

Storing and Reheating Instructions

To keep your pasta salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days, but trust me, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for optimal flavor and texture. If you find the salad a bit dry after chilling, just add a splash of olive oil or a little more vinegar to revive it. As for reheating, this salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so I don’t recommend heating it up. Just give it a good toss before serving, and enjoy that fresh taste all over again!

Pasta Salad: 7 Simple Steps to a Delightful Dish!

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A refreshing pasta salad featuring a medley of fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing.

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and black olives.
In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
Sprinkle feta cheese on top and serve chilled or at room temperature.