Greek Pasta Salad

Greek pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines pasta with traditional Greek ingredients. Here’s a basic recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 8 oz (about 225g) of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, so it doesn’t become too soft. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Add Dressing:
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Ensure that all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the Greek pasta salad for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This salad is best served chilled.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Before serving, garnish the salad with additional crumbled feta and fresh parsley if desired. Serve as a side dish or a light meal.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or any other ingredients you enjoy. Enjoy your delicious Greek pasta salad!