Greek Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor, Greek pasta salad is your answer. This colorful salad combines al dente pasta with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, making it perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light lunch. With its Mediterranean flair and easy preparation, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
– 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time for the pasta is 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approx. 1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 32g
– Fats: 14g
– Fiber: 3g
This is based on a single serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
6. Add the chopped red onion and mix well.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
9. Before serving, give it a gentle stir.
10. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute rotini pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. You can replace feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version. Adding grilled chicken or chickpeas can enhance protein content.
Serving and Pairings
Greek pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or lamb, and is perfect alongside pita bread and hummus. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or picnics.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover Greek pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; cook just until al dente.
– Skipping the rinsing step can lead to sticky pasta.
– Not chilling the salad before serving can diminish flavors.
– Forgetting to season the dressing can make the salad bland.
– Using low-quality olive oil can affect the overall taste.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the salad.
– For extra crunch, consider adding bell peppers or artichoke hearts.
– Serve with a sprinkle of lemon juice for added brightness.
FAQs
Can I make Greek pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, Greek pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What type of pasta works best for Greek pasta salad?
Rotini or fusilli are ideal for Greek pasta salad as their shapes hold onto the dressing and ingredients well. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for extra protein, making the salad more filling.
How long does Greek pasta salad last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Greek pasta salad can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Greek pasta salad is vegetarian-friendly, as it primarily contains vegetables, pasta, and cheese. Just ensure the cheese is suitable for your dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Greek pasta salad is a versatile, delicious dish that embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean. Its refreshing taste and ease of preparation make it a favorite for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a main or side dish, and savor the delightful combination of fresh ingredients!
Greek Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese cubed
- 1/4 red onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
- 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.
- Add the chopped red onion and mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Before serving, give it a gentle stir.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
