Greek-inspired pasta salad is the perfect dish for home cooks looking to bring vibrant, fresh flavors to the table. This salad combines the bold tanginess of lemon and olive oil dressing with the savory punch of feta cheese. It also offers the fresh crunch of cucumbers and tomatoes. This makes it an ideal addition to any meal. This easy-to-make dish will steal the show, whether it’s a family barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or a potluck.
Let’s dive into the recipe and ingredient details. We’ll also cover the preparation steps and tips to make the most of this delicious Greek-inspired pasta salad.
Why Greek-Inspired Pasta Salad?
Greek cuisine is celebrated for its fresh, wholesome ingredients and robust flavors. This pasta salad is inspired by classic Greek dishes like Greek salad. Tzatziki also influences it. The result is a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s a perfect side dish or even a standalone meal on a warm day.
Key features of this salad include:
- Ease of preparation — This dish is great for cooks of any skill level with simple steps and common ingredients.
- Nutritional value — Packed with vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and a dose of protein from feta cheese.
- Versatility — Can be adapted with your favorite veggies or add-ins like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Ingredients Table
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients in both U.S. customary and metric measurements for ease of use.
| Ingredient | U.S. Measure | Metric Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 1 pound | 450 grams |
| Cherry tomatoes (halved) | 2 cups | 300 grams |
| Cucumber (diced) | 1 cup | 130 grams |
| Red onion (sliced) | 1 small | 70 grams |
| Kalamata olives (pitted) | 1/2 cup | 120 grams |
| Feta cheese (crumbled) | 1 cup | 150 grams |
| Fresh dill (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 8 grams |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup | 60 mL |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup | 80 mL |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 6 grams |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | 2 grams |
Recipe: Greek-Inspired Pasta Salad
Preparation Time:
- Prep time — 20 minutes
- Cook time — 10 minutes
- Total time — 30 minutes
Yield:
4-6 servings
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions (approximately 8–10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. - Prepare the Vegetables and Mix the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled pasta. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, pitted Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh dill. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly. - Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired. - Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss until everything is well-coated and the dressing is evenly distributed. - Serve or Chill
The salad can be served immediately. You can also refrigerate it for up to 3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld for a more robust taste.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad
- Choose the Right Pasta
Penne is a great choice because its ridges hold onto the dressing well. Other short pastas like rotini or farfalle also work. - Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh vegetables and high-quality olive oil make all the difference in the flavor profile of this salad. - Customize the Add-ins
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make this salad a hearty main dish.
- Switch up the veggies: Add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or spinach for variation.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a little heat.
- Chill Before Serving
Let the salad sit in the fridge for an hour or two. This enhances the flavors. It also gives the dressing time to soak into the pasta. - Serve with Accompaniments
Pair this dish with warm pita bread, hummus, or grilled meat for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Greek-Inspired Pasta Salad
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Vegetables — A colorful medley of tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Olive Oil — A heart-healthy fat that supports cardiovascular health.
- Feta Cheese — A source of protein and calcium with a tangy flavor.
- Dill and Lemon — These add not just flavor but also beneficial compounds like antioxidants.
Storing and Serving
- Storage — Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the vegetables may lose some crunch over time.
- Reheating — This salad is best served cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating.
- Serving Tip — Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of crumbled feta before serving for a fresh touch.
Bringing It All Together
Greek-inspired pasta salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Perfectly combining tangy, salty, and fresh elements, this salad will transport your taste buds straight to the Greek Isles. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick meal prep option, this dish is a surefire hit.
Grab your ingredients. Whisk up that lemony dressing. Get ready to enjoy a salad that’s simple to prepare and delightful to eat. Opa!
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