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Classic Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

A refreshing and vibrant pasta salad featuring fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty homemade dressing, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
Dressing Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
  4. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives to the bowl.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  7. Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Give it a stir before serving; add a splash of olive oil or vinegar if it seems dry.