Sunkissed Mediterranean Pasta Salad a Taste of the Aegean
Recipe Introduction: Sun-Kissed Mediterranean Bliss
Ever feel like you need a holiday? Me too! That's why I love this cold mediterranean pasta salad . Honestly, it's like a mini vacation in a bowl.
Its bright mediterranean flavors will remind you of a sunny greek island.
This gorgeous mediterranean pasta salad recipe hails from the sun-drenched Mediterranean region. It's a simple yet flavourful dish perfect for sharing.
This pasta salad with feta is Easy, needs around 1 hour. This makes 6 servings, perfect for sharing.
Why You'll Love This Summer Pasta Salad
This cold pasta salad isn't just tasty, it's also packed with goodness. It’s full of fresh vegetables, heart healthy olive oil and lots of Mediterranean flavors.
It’s perfect for a picnic, a potluck, or even a light lunch on a hot day. This dish stands out because of the lemon vinaigrette pasta salad .
I can ensure that this is a winner.
What Makes It So Special?
What sets this Greek pasta salad apart? The fresh ingredients make a huge difference. The vibrant colors and textures are appealing.
This pasta salad with vegetables and the tangy dressing create a symphony of flavours. I can remember one time when I forgot the feta and it wasn't the same.
Seriously!
Perfect for a Picnic Pasta Salad
Planning a picnic? This is it. This italian pasta salad is easy to transport and is even better when it has been chilling in the fridge! Make it ahead of time and let those flavours meld.
Ready to get started? Let's dive into the simple list of ingredients you'll need to create this taste of sunshine.
Let's Get This Cold Mediterranean Pasta Salad Party Started!
Okay, so you wanna make the best summer pasta salad ever? I get it. Let’s talk ingredients. Honestly, this Mediterranean pasta salad recipe is all about fresh, quality stuff.
You know, the kind that makes you feel like you're on holiday.
Main Players: Pasta, Veggies, and Cheese!
For the pasta, you'll need 1 pound (450g) of rotini. But hey, penne or farfalle work too, if that's what's kicking about in your cupboard.
Don’t forget about 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil to prevent sticking. Now, for the veggie medley: grab 1 pint (about 500g) of cherry tomatoes, 1 cucumber , 1 red bell pepper , 1/2 red onion , and 1/2 cup (75g) of Kalamata olives.
The feta? 4 ounces (115g) . Get the good stuff. Feta makes this a real Greek pasta salad, so splurge a little, yeah? The feta and olives provide the salt, so be cautious with the dressing later.
Seasoning That Sings
Forget bland. This lemon vinaigrette pasta salad needs to pop . We're talking 1/4 cup (60ml) of extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lemon juice, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Taste it, adjust. Seriously. Fresh basil and parsley? 1/4 cup (packed) each. No skimping! Honestly, this is essential for those Mediterranean flavors .
Essential Gear: Keep It Simple, Stupid
Right, what you'll actually need? A large pot, a colander, and a big mixing bowl. A knife and chopping board, obviously. And a small bowl or jar for the dressing.
Remember my first attempt making pasta salad with vegetables ? The pasta was mush. Don't be me. Cook it al dente .
It will make or break the whole picnic pasta salad experience. Trust me on this one. This cold pasta salad will bring so much joy to your day!
Cooking Method: Mastering the Cold Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Want a taste of sunshine? This cold mediterranean pasta salad is your ticket! I'm going to spill all the secrets to making a summer pasta salad that's bursting with flavor.
Honestly, it's the perfect picnic pasta salad and even better for a quick lunch.
Prep Steps: Your Mediterranean Mise en Place
First, get organised. It makes life easier. Chop your veggies: halve 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, dice 1 cucumber and 1 red bell pepper, thinly slice 1/2 a red onion and halve 1/2 cup of Kalamata olives.
Crumble 4 ounces of feta. Chop 1/4 cup each of fresh basil and parsley. This essential mise en place will save you a tonne of time.
Safety note : always use a sharp knife and a stable cutting board. Trust me, I've learned the hard way!
step-by-step Process: Salad Perfection
- Cook 1 pound of rotini pasta. Cook it al dente , it's key.
- Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Whisk together the dressing. Combine 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. This lemon vinaigrette pasta salad is heaven!
- Combine cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, feta, basil, and parsley in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes .
Pro Tips: Taking Your Salad to the Next Level
For a richer flavor, use high-quality Mediterranean flavors in your olive oil. I once accidentally used a cheap olive oil.
Big mistake! Avoid overcooking the pasta. It turns to mush. Make this pasta salad with feta a day ahead. The flavours meld beautifully.
Honestly, this is more than just a recipe; it's a taste of sunshine! It's my go-to Greek pasta salad . It's really simple and easy to prepare.
With all these pasta salad with vegetables , you will find this Mediterranean pasta salad recipe one of the best Italian pasta salad that you ever tasted.
Recipe Notes
Right then, let’s chat about this amazing cold mediterranean pasta salad . Honestly, it’s a total game changer for summer lunches and BBQs! These are a few extra pointers, you know, just to make sure yours turns out absolutely perfect!
Serving it Up Just Right
Presentation is key, right? Serve your Mediterranean pasta salad recipe in a nice bowl. A clear glass bowl shows off all those gorgeous colors.
Garnish with extra basil or a lemon wedge for a bit of zing. For sides, think grilled chicken or fish.
Maybe some hummus and pita bread. And a crisp white wine? Oh my gosh , perfection!
Storing Your Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This pasta salad with feta keeps well. Chuck it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It’ll be good for up to three days. Honestly, it tastes even better the next day. The flavors really meld together.
I don’t recommend freezing it. The veggies can get a bit soggy when thawed. Reheating isn’t really a thing either it’s meant to be a cold pasta salad !
Mix It Up a Bit
Feeling adventurous? You can totally adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Easy peasy. Need a dairy-free option? Just skip the feta or use a vegan alternative.
In the autumn, try roasted butternut squash instead of tomatoes. Adds a lovely sweetness.
Nutrition Lowdown
Okay, so this summer pasta salad is pretty good for you. It’s got about 450 calories per serving. Loads of good stuff in there like protein from the feta and fibre from the veggies.
Plus, the lemon vinaigrette pasta salad is way healthier than mayo based dressings. Olive oil is a good fat! This dish is full of Mediterranean flavors and is a great way to eat well.
Right, that's all, I hope that helps. Don’t be afraid to get creative with this Greek pasta salad ! Tweak it to your liking.
This Picnic pasta salad is so simple and delicious, it’ll become a new favourite. You know what they say: "Good food is good mood.
" Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cold mediterranean pasta salad ahead of time? Will it get soggy?
Absolutely! In fact, making this cold mediterranean pasta salad ahead of time is recommended. Chilling it for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
To prevent sogginess, be sure to cook your pasta al dente and don't overdress it; the pasta will absorb some of the dressing as it sits.
What kind of pasta is best for cold pasta salad? I only have spaghetti on hand!
While you could technically use spaghetti (a bit unconventional, like wearing socks with sandals!), rotini, penne, or farfalle (bow-tie) pasta are much better choices. These shapes have ridges and nooks that hold the dressing and other ingredients, giving you a more flavorful and satisfying bite.
Plus, they hold up better in a cold pasta salad, preventing it from becoming a gloopy mess.
I'm not a fan of feta. What other cheese could I use in this mediterranean pasta salad?
No worries, not everyone's a feta fan! If you're looking for a milder flavor, try using fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or even small cubes of provolone. For a tangier alternative, goat cheese would also work well, but keep in mind it has a stronger flavour profile, akin to stilton.
How long will this cold mediterranean pasta salad last in the fridge? Is it good for meal prep?
This cold mediterranean pasta salad is a fantastic option for meal prep! It will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Just give it a good toss before serving, as the dressing may settle to the bottom. Perfect for those grab and-go lunches during the week!
I want to make a vegan version of this. What substitutions can I make?
Making this a vegan delight is super easy! The main swap is the feta cheese. You can either omit it entirely or use a vegan feta alternative, which is becoming increasingly available. Also, double check your pasta to ensure it doesn't contain any egg (most dried pastas are naturally vegan, though).
Any tips for making the best dressing for my cold mediterranean pasta salad?
Absolutely! Don't skimp on the olive oil a good quality extra virgin olive oil makes a huge difference. Also, fresh lemon juice is key for that bright, zesty flavor that complements the other ingredients so well.
Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, like a cheeky Nando's!
Sunkissed Mediterranean Pasta Salad A Taste Of T
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |
