Description
This vibrant and refreshing cold pasta salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion. With a combination of fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing, it’s a quick and delicious way to add a burst of flavor to your meal.
Ingredients
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12 oz of pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes (sliced in half)
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1 cup cucumber (diced)
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½ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
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1 cup bell peppers (diced)
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1 cup olives (green or black, pitted and sliced)
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1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
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2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic (minced)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool down the pasta quickly.
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Prepare the Veggies: While the pasta is cooking, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion and bell peppers. Set aside.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared veggies. Add the olives and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently to combine.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Notes
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Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
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For a healthier version, use whole-grain pasta or swap out the feta cheese for a vegan alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Toss
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: easy cold pasta salad recipes, cold pasta salad, summer pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, pasta salad with feta, quick pasta salad recipe