Mediterranean Dream Pasta Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This Mediterranean Dream Pasta Salad is your passport to a sun-soaked Greek island, no airfare required. It's fresh, vibrant, and perfect for any occasion, whether you're on a picnic or just dreaming of one.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Dream Pasta Salad

Let's dive into what makes this dish shine. The star is rotini pasta, with its twists capturing the dressing and bits of basil. Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness, while cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. The red onion delivers a zesty bite, and kalamata olives contribute that unmistakable briny flavor. Feta cheese gives creaminess and tang, and fresh basil ties it all together with its aromatic notes. The extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing, seasoned with dried oregano, salt, and pepper, harmonizes everything with a Mediterranean flair.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you're short on time, rinse the pasta under cold water to cool it quickly.
  • For even more flavor, marinate the onions in a bit of vinegar before adding them.
  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results, especially the olive oil and feta.
  • To easily pit olives, gently smash them with the flat side of a knife.
  • Adjust the salt based on the saltiness of your feta cheese and olives.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta salad is a versatile companion to many dishes. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also complements roasted vegetables beautifully, making it a perfect addition to any vegetarian spread. For a picnic, pack it alongside some crusty bread and hummus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it's even better after sitting for a bit. Just keep it refrigerated and add the basil just before serving for freshness.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fusilli or penne would work well, too. Just ensure it's a shape that holds onto the dressing.

Mediterranean Dream Pasta Salad Recipe Walkthrough

First up, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente for that perfect bite. Once done, drain it well and let it cool slightly. Moving on to the veggies, grab a large bowl and combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and kalamata olives. This colorful mix is already looking tasty!

Now, whip up the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of veggies, pour the dressing over, and toss everything to combine. Take a moment to appreciate how it all comes together.

Finally, gently fold in the feta cheese and fresh basil. These last additions elevate the dish, giving it that signature Mediterranean taste. Serve it straight away, or let it chill in the fridge for an hour or two to let the flavors mingle even more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare for any skill level.
  • Bright, fresh flavors that transport you to the Mediterranean.
  • Versatile enough to be a main dish or a side.
  • Great for meal prep and stays delicious from fridge to table.
  • Perfect balance of textures: crunchy, creamy, and chewy.

Ingredients

8 oz rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and kalamata olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the large bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine.
5. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow flavors to meld.

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