This Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad is a refreshing burst of flavors, with crisp veggies, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing. It's perfect for a summer cookout or as a light, satisfying lunch.
Rotini pasta serves as the hearty base, holding onto the dressing well with its twists and turns. Cherry tomatoes add a juicy, sweet-tart element, perfect for balancing the saltiness of the feta cheese. Cucumber brings a cool, refreshing crunch, while the red onion provides a sharp bite that cuts through the richness. Black olives introduce a briny depth, pairing beautifully with the creamy feta. A touch of fresh dill imparts a subtle, herby aroma, tying all the flavors together. The dressing, a mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic, is both tangy and savory, enhancing every bite.
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a hearty bean salad or some warm, crusty bread. It’s also a delightful side dish for a summer BBQ or picnic.
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it's perfectly al dente. Make sure to salt the water generously — it helps flavor the pasta from the inside out. Once cooked, drain the pasta and spread it out on a tray to cool. This prevents it from becoming mushy and sticking together.
While the pasta cools, grab a large bowl and toss in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives. This medley of vegetables is the colorful heart of our salad.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be your delicious dressing.
Once your pasta is cool to the touch, add it to the bowl of veggies. Drizzle the dressing over the top, making sure everything is coated evenly. Give it a good toss, ensuring the pasta and veggies are well-mixed.
Finally, sprinkle the feta cheese and fresh dill over your salad. Gently fold these in to prevent the feta from becoming too crumbly. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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