Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Black Olives
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup black natural olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing, along with the black olives, feta cheese, parsley, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Toss well to coat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Mediterranean pasta salad cold, garnished with additional chopped parsley or feta cheese, if desired.
This Mediterranean pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for your favorite grilled meats. The black natural olives add a salty and savory kick, while the feta cheese and fresh vegetables provide a tangy and crunchy contrast. The dressing is simple but delicious, with a zesty blend of herbs and spices that ties everything together. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in your own kitchen!