Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Ah, the Greek pasta salad—a dish that effortlessly marries the robust flavors of the Mediterranean with the comforting familiarity of pasta. It's like a culinary symphony where each ingredient plays its part, creating a harmonious and delectable experience. Let's embark on this flavorful journey together, shall we?

Greek Pasta Salad: A Mediterranean Melody in Every Bite

Imagine a bowl filled with al dente pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a luscious dressing that sings with notes of lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. This isn't just a salad; it's a celebration of textures and flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you're hosting a summer soirée, prepping for a week's worth of lunches, or simply craving something fresh and satisfying, this Greek pasta salad is your go-to companion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish, a light main course, or pack it for a picnic—the possibilities are endless.
• Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich feta, it's a wholesome choice that doesn't compromise on taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors meld beautifully over time, so feel free to prepare it in advance.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 100 ml (1/2 cup) extra virgin olive oil
• 20 ml (1 tbsp) white wine vinegar
• 30 ml (2 tbsp) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 200 g (7 oz) Greek yogurt

For the Salad:

• 350 g (12 oz) farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
• 250-300 g (9-10 oz) cucumber, diced (preferably unpeeled if organic)
• 230 g (8 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 150 g (5 oz) mixed greens (such as a blend of lettuce and arugula)
• 70 g (2.5 oz) Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 180 g (6 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, and lemon juice until well combined.
• Add the garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk to incorporate.
• Stir in the Dijon mustard until the mixture is smooth.
• Fold in the Greek yogurt, mixing thoroughly until the dressing is creamy and homogeneous.
• Cover and refrigerate the dressing while you assemble the rest of the salad.

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
   • Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down.
   • Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.

2. Assemble the Salad:

   • To the bowl of pasta, add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion.
   • Toss in the mixed greens, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
   • Add the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the mixture.
   • Season with salt to taste, keeping in mind that the feta and olives already contribute saltiness.

3. Dress the Salad:

   • Pour approximately two-thirds of the prepared dressing over the salad.
   • Gently toss the salad to ensure all components are well coated with the dressing.
   • If a creamier texture is desired, add more dressing as needed.

4. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
   • Enjoy this refreshing Greek pasta salad as a delightful side dish or a light main course.

Storage Instructions

This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If preparing in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate and combining just before serving to preserve the crispness of the vegetables.

This Greek pasta salad is more than just a dish; it's an experience—a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that transports you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with each bite. Its simplicity, versatility, and robust taste make it a staple in any culinary repertoire. So, the next time you're in need of a dish that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, remember this recipe. Happy cooking!

Cook Along with Me:

For a step-by-step visual guide, check out the video below.