Greek Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup fruity olive oil
  • ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic , minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons dry oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
  • 1 pound pasta noodles , cooked, drained and cooled*
  • 2 15- ounce cans quartered artichoke hearts in brine , drained
  • 1 12- ounce jar roasted red bell peppers slivered or chopped
  • 1 8- ounce jar kalamata olives , halved
  • 1 hot house cucumber , cut into ⅜” slices
  • ¼ red onion , thinly sliced
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ⅓ cup fresh slivered or chopped basil leaves

Instructions:

  1. To make the dressing, in a small bowl or a jar fitted with a lid, add the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper and whisk well to combine. Let sit at room temperature for flavors to blend.
  2. Add the cooked pasta, artichoke hearts, roasted bell peppers, olives, cucumber, onion, and half of the feta cheese to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to mix. Taste for seasoning and add more salt and pepper or more olive oil if needed. Add the rest of the feta cheese to the top of the pasta salad and top with more fresh basil if desired. Let the flavors sit for ½ hour before serving or overnight.

FAQs:

  • What is Greek Pasta Salad?
    • Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines cooked pasta with traditional Greek ingredients such as tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing. It’s often served cold, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish.
  • How do I make Greek Pasta Salad?
    • To make Greek Pasta Salad, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss with a Greek vinaigrette dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Can I customize Greek Pasta Salad with other ingredients?
    • Yes, Greek Pasta Salad can be customized with additional ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. You can add ingredients like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, spinach, grilled chicken or shrimp, or swap out the feta cheese for a vegan alternative like tofu or dairy-free cheese.
  • How long does Greek Pasta Salad last in the refrigerator?
    • Greek Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often develop more over time, making it a great make-ahead dish for meal prep or entertaining.
  • Is Greek Pasta Salad suitable for a picnic?
    • Yes, Greek Pasta Salad is an excellent choice for picnics because it can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature. It’s easy to transport in a sealed container and doesn’t require heating, making it convenient for outdoor gatherings.

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