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As the warm weather beckons, there's nothing quite like a Chilled Greek Pasta Salad to bring a refreshing twist to your meal repertoire. This vibrant dish serves as an ideal choice for a light lunch, a side dish at barbecues, or a star attraction at potlucks. Combining the wholesome goodness of pasta with an array of fresh vegetables and the unmistakable flavors of the Mediterranean, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.

Chilled Greek Pasta

Discover the perfect dish for warm days with this Chilled Greek Pasta Salad recipe. Bursting with vibrant colors and Mediterranean flavors, it's a delightful blend of pasta, fresh vegetables, and creamy feta that makes it ideal for lunch, barbecues, or potlucks. With a simple dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar, each bite is refreshing and satisfying. This salad is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Enjoy the flavors of summer in every serving!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped for added flavor and color

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Ensure the pasta is well-drained and set aside.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and if desired, the chopped roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor.

        Dress the Pasta: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.

          Chill: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the pasta salad to chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle and develop.

            Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the chilled pasta salad in a colorful serving bowl, and consider adding a few whole Kalamata olives or crumbled feta on top for an appealing finish. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering!