Description
This Castelvetrano Greek Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the bright flavors of cherry tomatoes, Persian cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and briny Castelvetrano olives, all tossed in a zesty Greek vinaigrette and topped with creamy crumbled feta. Perfect for warm weather, it serves well as both a main course or a side dish and can be enjoyed at room temperature, chilled, or slightly warmed.
Ingredients
For the Greek Vinaigrette
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Pasta Salad
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup halved and sliced Persian cucumbers
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup Castelvetrano olives, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces feta, drained and crumbled
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 10 ounces pasta (any sort variety will do)
Instructions
- Prepare the Greek Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the chopped garlic, olive oil, apple vinegar, and dried oregano until well combined. Season the vinaigrette with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, then set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, halved and sliced Persian cucumbers, diced red and yellow bell peppers, halved Castelvetrano olives, and thinly sliced red onion. Add the cooled pasta to the vegetables and gently toss everything together to combine evenly.
- Add the Vinaigrette: Pour the prepared Greek vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetables. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Incorporate the Feta: Crumble the drained feta over the salad, then very gently fold the cheese into the salad to maintain its texture without breaking it up too much.
- Season and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning by adding more freshly ground black pepper if desired. Serve immediately at room temperature, or chill before serving if preferred.
Notes
- This salad can be enjoyed at room temperature, warm, or chilled depending on your preference.
- It works well as a versatile dish: great as a main course or as a side dish.
- Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish to turn it into a complete meal.
