A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings. This dish combines classic Mediterranean ingredients with a zesty lemon herb dressing.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
12ouncespasta(rotini, penne, or farfalle)
1cupcherry tomatoes(halved)
1/2cupcucumber(diced)
1/3cupred onion(finely sliced)
1/2cupkalamata olives(sliced)
1/2cupfeta cheese(crumbled)
1/4cupfresh parsley(chopped)
1/4cupfresh basil(chopped (optional))
For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
1/4cupolive oil
2tablespoonsfreshly squeezed lemon juice
1teaspoonlemon zest
1clovegarlic(minced)
1teaspoondried oregano
1/2teaspoondried dill
totasteSalt and pepper
Instructions
Cook pasta according to package directions.
Drain and rinse pasta with cold water; set aside.
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, and dill.
Season with salt and pepper; adjust lemon juice/oil to taste.
Combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, parsley, and basil (if using).
Pour dressing over salad and toss.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Toss and adjust seasoning before serving chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, ensure the feta cheese is vegetarian-friendly.