Greek Pasta Salad
Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish? This Greek pasta salad combines the classic flavors of the Mediterranean with hearty pasta, making it an ideal choice for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. With fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, it’s a delightful way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
– 2 cups rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 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 around 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 320 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, 8g of protein, and 3g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
7. Add crumbled feta cheese on top and mix lightly.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
10. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute rotini pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to swap feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a vegan version.
Serving and Pairings
This Greek pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish to any Mediterranean meal. Serve it alongside pita bread or tzatziki for a complete experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. It can also be frozen, but the texture of the vegetables may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; cook until al dente.
- Skipping the cooling step can lead to a soggy salad.
- Not seasoning the dressing enough can result in bland flavors.
- Using stale or low-quality olives and feta can affect taste.
- Assembling too early without chilling can diminish flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest taste.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your palate.
- Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhances flavor.
- For extra protein, add chickpeas or grilled shrimp.
FAQs
Can I make Greek pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will deepen as it sits.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include bell peppers, artichokes, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Is Greek pasta salad healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with vegetables and whole grains, making it a nutritious option, especially when portioned appropriately.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute feta with goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free alternative.
How long does Greek pasta salad last?
It can last up to 3 days in the fridge. For best quality, consume within this time frame.
Conclusion
This Greek pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for any occasion. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it promises to be a hit at your next gathering or as a satisfying meal at home.
Greek Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
- In a small 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 crumbled feta cheese on top and mix lightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
