There’s something undeniably inviting about the vibrant colors and hearty flavors of a Mediterranean pasta salad. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal on a warm evening, this Italian pasta salad is not only easy to make but also brimming with delicious ingredients that celebrate the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive in!
| Difficulty | Prep Time (minutes) | Cooking Time (minutes) | Total Time (minutes) | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | 15 | 10 | 25 | 4-6 |
Ingredients
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- Pasta: 8 oz. (preferably rotini or penne)
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- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
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- Cucumber: 1 medium, diced
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- Red onion: 1/4, finely chopped
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- Bell pepper: 1 medium (red or yellow), diced
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- Olives: 1/2 cup, sliced (Kalamata or green)
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- Feta cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled
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- Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
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- Italian dressing: 1/2 cup (store-bought or homemade)
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- Salt and pepper: to taste
Execution
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- Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta.
- Cook the Pasta:
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- Prep the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the veggies. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and dice the bell pepper. You want all the pieces to be bite-sized for a balanced texture in every bite.
- Prep the Vegetables:
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- Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled, drained pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese. Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
- Combine the Ingredients:
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- Dress the Salad:
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
- Dress the Salad:
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- Chill Before Serving:
For the best flavor, cover the pasta salad and allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest period lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Chill Before Serving:
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- Serve and Enjoy:Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Additional Tips
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- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to mix it up! Add in grilled chicken, shrimp, or any other favorite ingredients you have on hand, like artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes.
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- Make It Ahead: This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance, just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator. Note that the pasta may absorb the dressing over time, so consider adding a bit more dressing just before serving.
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- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in flavor, so opt for high-quality olive oil, fresh herbs, and ripe vegetables whenever possible.
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- Add a Kick: For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Enjoy this delightful Italian pasta salad as a side dish or a stand-alone meal. It’s a timeless dish packed with fresh flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast, bringing everyone to the table and delighting every palate. Buon Appetito!
