Go Back
As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, many of us start seeking meals that are not only refreshing but also nutritious. Enter the Chilled Mediterranean Pasta Delight, a vibrant dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of summer dining. This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a wholesome combination of flavors and textures that is ideal for warm days, potlucks, or meal prep for the week ahead. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and wholesome grains, this pasta dish aligns beautifully with the principles of the Mediterranean diet, renowned for its health benefits.

Cold Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Discover the refreshing and nutritious Chilled Mediterranean Pasta Delight, a perfect summer dish for any occasion! This vibrant recipe showcases tri-color rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, and feta cheese, all drizzled with a zesty dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar. Ideal for potlucks, meal prep, or a light lunch, it's packed with flavors that celebrate the Mediterranean diet's health benefits. Enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that can be customized to your taste!

Ingredients
  

8 oz tri-color rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

    Prepare the Veggies: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Set aside.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

        Mix It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

            Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

              Serve: After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings