Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Name: Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cucumber (diced); 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced); 1 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced); 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled); 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a Mediterranean pasta salad that brings the essence of sunny coasts to your table. This dish combines al dente pasta with fresh vegetables, olives, and tangy feta, making it a perfect side or main course. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light dinner, this salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, bursting with colors and textures that will entice your taste buds.

Ingredients

– 2 cups rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and no cooking is required beyond boiling the pasta.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 12g of protein, 15g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 4g of fiber. This nutritional information is calculated for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
4. Add the sliced Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
6. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Gently fold in the chopped basil for added freshness.
9. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
10. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnishing with additional basil if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute rotini pasta with whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Also, feel free to replace feta cheese with a dairy-free alternative or omit it altogether for a vegan dish.

Serving and Pairings

This Mediterranean pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish for barbecues. It also works well alongside crusty bread or as a light lunch option.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. This salad can be made ahead of time for meal prep purposes, but avoid adding fresh herbs until serving to maintain their flavor.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking pasta can make it mushy; monitor it closely.
Forgetting to cool the pasta can lead to a soggy salad.
Not seasoning the dressing properly can make the salad bland.
Using stale or poor-quality olives can affect the overall flavor.
Skipping the refrigeration step may result in a less flavorful dish.

Helpful Tips

Try adding grilled vegetables for extra flavor.
Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest taste.
Experiment with different cheese types, such as goat cheese.
Add nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
Adjust the vinegar amount to suit your taste preferences.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld together.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Feel free to customize according to your preferences.

Is this salad gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Many options are available in stores today.

Can I freeze the Mediterranean pasta salad?

It is not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the vegetables and pasta can change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use tofu or a store-bought vegan feta. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Conclusion

Mediterranean pasta salad is a delightful and versatile dish that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Whether enjoyed as a side or a light meal, it’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its endless customization options, you can create your own signature version that your family and friends will love.