Description
Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a colorful and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer. This vibrant salad combines al dente short pasta with crisp vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, all tossed in a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing. Not only is it quick to prepare—taking just 30 minutes—but it’s also incredibly versatile, making it perfect as a side dish for barbecues or as a light main course. The addition of feta cheese and Kalamata olives adds rich flavor and texture, creating a satisfying meal that can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for an easy weeknight dinner option, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is sure to delight.
Ingredients
- Short pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Bell peppers
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped vegetables and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over and toss everything together until well mixed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg