Classic Greek-inspired pasta salad with olives, feta, crisp veggies, and fresh herbs. Delicious for summer gatherings.
# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 9 oz short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle
02 - Salt for pasta water
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 medium cucumber, diced
04 - 7 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 small red onion, finely sliced
06 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
→ Greek Flavors
07 - 3.5 oz Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
08 - 4.25 oz feta cheese, crumbled
09 - 2 tbsp capers, optional
→ Dressing
10 - 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
11 - 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
12 - 1 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
14 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
15 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Fresh Herbs
16 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
17 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill, optional
# Directions:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Cook pasta until al dente following package directions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool rapidly. Set aside.
02 - Combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, Kalamata olives, and capers in a large mixing bowl.
03 - In a separate small bowl or jar, thoroughly whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
04 - Add cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture. Pour dressing over and gently toss to ensure even coating.
05 - Fold in crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and dill. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
06 - Refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes for optimal flavor development. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
