Growing up in a bustling kitchen filled with the comforting scents of Mediterranean spices, the greek pasta salad recipe has always held a special place in my heart. It transports me back to those sunlit afternoons in Mama Lou’s kitchen, where she would hum softly as she tossed together vibrant vegetables and tangy feta cheese. This dish is more than just a salad; it’s a tapestry of flavors interwoven with memories of family gatherings and shared laughter with my sister, Ouma. As I share this recipe with you, I hope to pass on the warmth and connection that have made this dish a favorite in my family for generations.
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Why You’ll Love This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
There’s something utterly captivating about a greek pasta salad recipe that makes it a perennial favorite. It’s a dish that effortlessly marries simplicity with flavor, reminding me of the carefree days spent with Ouma, where we’d compete to see who could assemble the most colorful bowl. This salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes, with its vivid hues of red tomatoes, green cucumbers, and the creamy white of feta cheese. The balance of textures—from the al dente pasta to the crisp vegetables—ensures that every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, the tangy dressing, infused with herbs and olive oil, brings it all together like a warm hug from Mama Lou.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
- 2 cups of penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute the penne pasta with any other pasta shape you have on hand. As Mama Lou would say, “the heart of a dish is in its flavors, not its form.”
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
These nutritional values are estimated based on a typical serving size. Remember, food is as much about nourishment for the soul as it is for the body. Learn more: Timeless Taste: Unveiling a Vintage Recipe for Cucumber Salad
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Mediterranean Magic: Irresistible Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
Learn how to make delicious greek pasta salad recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups of penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute the penne pasta with any other pasta shape you have on hand. As Mama Lou would say, “the heart of a dish is in its flavors, not its form.”
Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This was a trick Mama Lou taught me to keep the pasta from becoming too soft.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Toss everything gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary; Mama Lou always said the secret to a good salad is in its dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients with the flavorful mixture.
- For an extra touch of freshness, tear a few basil leaves and sprinkle them over the top just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This was a trick Mama Lou taught me to keep the pasta from becoming too soft.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese. Toss everything gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary; Mama Lou always said the secret to a good salad is in its dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again to coat all the ingredients with the flavorful mixture.
- For an extra touch of freshness, tear a few basil leaves and sprinkle them over the top just before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
To truly elevate your greek pasta salad recipe, here are a few tips that I’ve gathered over the years from Mama Lou and my own kitchen adventures:
- Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables and best quality feta you can find. It makes a world of difference.
- Pasta Choice: While penne is my go-to, feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, like rotini or farfalle, to see which you prefer.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Fresh Herbs: Don’t shy away from adding fresh herbs. They add an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
A greek pasta salad recipe is versatile in its pairings. It makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats or fish, much like the summer barbecues we used to have with the whole family gathered around. It can also be served as a main course for a light lunch, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the dressing. For a touch of indulgence, consider pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine, a practice Mama Lou often indulged in during lazy Sunday afternoons.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, this salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before serving again, give it a good toss and taste to see if it needs a touch more dressing or seasoning. Remember, like the stories shared around the table, the flavors only get better with time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for greek pasta salad recipe?
The main ingredients for greek pasta salad recipe include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make greek pasta salad recipe?
The total time to make greek pasta salad recipe includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make greek pasta salad recipe ahead of time?
Yes, greek pasta salad recipe can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with greek pasta salad recipe?
greek pasta salad recipe pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is greek pasta salad recipe suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, greek pasta salad recipe may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
This greek pasta salad recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a vessel for memories, a reminder of the love and laughter that food can bring into our lives. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, I hope it brings you the same warmth and joy that it has brought to my family. As you enjoy each bite, know that you’re part of a tradition that stretches back to Mama Lou’s kitchen, filled with stories and love.
