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Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt in the water enhances the flavor of the pasta.
Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still firm to the bite.
Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to cool the pasta quickly, preventing it from sticking together. Set aside to cool completely.
Prepare the Vegetables:
Dice the cucumber. English cucumbers are preferred as they have a thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them perfect for salads.
Halve the cherry tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.
Seed and chop the bell pepper. You can use any color bell pepper; red, yellow, and orange peppers add sweetness, while green peppers add a slight bitterness.
Finely chop the red onion. Red onions provide a sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Crumble the feta cheese. Feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element to the salad.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. The oregano and garlic add traditional Greek flavors.
Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Emulsifying means blending the oil and vinegar together until they form a cohesive mixture. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and pitted Kalamata olives. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be gentle to avoid breaking the pasta or crushing the vegetables.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste.
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Chilling the salad also makes it more refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Tips:
For a more flavorful salad, marinate the vegetables in the dressing for 15-30 minutes before adding them to the pasta. This helps the vegetables absorb the flavors of the dressing.
If you don’t have red wine vinegar, you can substitute white wine vinegar or lemon juice. Each will add a slightly different flavor profile.
You can also add other vegetables to the salad, such as zucchini, yellow squash, or black olives. These additions can provide extra crunch and flavor.
To make the salad ahead of time, simply prepare the pasta, vegetables, and dressing the day before. Toss everything together before serving. This makes it convenient for entertaining.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables and whole grains, this salad is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible even for beginners.
Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, main course, or even a potluck contribution. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.
Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of tangy feta, sweet tomatoes, and zesty dressing creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family meals.
Conclusion
Enjoy this delicious and refreshing Greek Pasta Salad! It’s a delightful dish that brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors in a simple, easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a casual lunch, or as a light dinner, it’s bound to become a favorite. With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on the table. Happy cooking!
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