Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Penne
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: European, Egg-Free, Free Of Gluten, Dairy-Free (with substitutions), <30 Mins, Easy
Description:
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a refreshing and easy-to-make dish that perfectly balances vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Inspired by a recipe from Secrets of Light Latin Cooking, I decided to make a few adjustments to suit my taste. Feta cheese replaced the original goat cheese, and the result was a delightful twist on the classic. Ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a quick, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 7 oz |
| Cherry tomatoes | 8, halved |
| Black olives | 4 oz, pitted and sliced |
| Fresh basil leaves | 20 leaves, chopped |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 Β½ tsp |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 387.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 22.4 mg |
| Sodium | 315.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 45.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.9 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 10.6 g |
Instructions:
-
Cook the Penne Pasta:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once itβs al dente, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures your pasta will stay firm and absorb the dressing nicely without becoming soggy. -
Prepare the Salad Components:
While the pasta is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the black olives. Chop the fresh basil leaves into thin strips. Set these aside as you move on to making the dressing. -
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, water, and sugar. Whisk the ingredients together until well-blended. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the savory richness of the olives, creating a harmonious dressing for the pasta salad. -
Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled penne pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. The dressing will lightly coat each piece of pasta and bring out the vibrant flavors of the vegetables and herbs. -
Serve:
Transfer the Mediterranean pasta salad to serving plates or a large bowl. You can enjoy it immediately, or for an even deeper flavor, let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and flavors even more.
Tips:
- Cheese Variation: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can swap the feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative. Some coconut-based or cashew-based cheeses work wonderfully in this salad.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.
- Customize: Feel free to customize the salad with other Mediterranean ingredients, such as cucumbers, red onions, or roasted red peppers, to suit your taste.
Conclusion:
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of simplicity and bold flavors. Its quick preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without too much fuss. Whether served as a light lunch or a side dish at a family gathering, itβs sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and deliciously zesty dressing. The feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy note that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Youβll find yourself making this dish again and again, especially when you need a healthy, vibrant meal in less than 30 minutes.
Enjoy!
