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When it comes to selecting the right pasta for your Mediterranean salad, both fusilli and penne are excellent choices. Fusilli, with its spiral shape, captures the dressing and holds onto the other ingredients, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. Its unique texture adds a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables. On the other hand, penne, with its tubular shape, is another popular option that is equally adept at holding dressings and integrating with the salad's vibrant components. The choice between these two types of pasta ultimately comes down to personal preference, but both will deliver a satisfying base for your salad.

Pasta Salad

Experience the vibrant taste of summer with this Colorful Mediterranean Pasta Salad! Bursting with fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and briny olives, this dish is a visual and culinary delight. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal, it’s not only quick and nourishing but also easy to customize to suit your dietary needs. Dive into a world of flavors while enjoying the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Treat yourself to this simple yet impressive recipe!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) fusilli or penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1/2 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

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add a generous amount of salt. Once boiling, introduce the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely in the colander.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces for the salad. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

      Mix the Dressing: In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is emulsified and well combined.

        Combine Ingredients: In the large bowl with the chopped vegetables, add the cooled pasta, halved Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Using a large spoon, toss everything together gently to ensure that all components are evenly coated with the dressing.

            Finish and Chill: Fold in the freshly chopped parsley, and give the salad another gentle toss. Taste the salad, adding more salt and pepper if desired. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

              Serve: Serve your vibrant Mediterranean pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a delightful side dish or a light meal, perfect for gatherings or picnics!

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  - Serving Suggestion: For an extra splash of color, garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of extra feta cheese right before serving. Enjoy!