Zesty Mediterranean Rotini Salad

Ingredients

- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large English cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the 12 oz of rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente, according to package directions. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and to cool the pasta. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rotini pasta, 1 large diced English cucumber, 1 diced red bell pepper, 1/2 thinly sliced red onion, and 1 cup halved grape tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables.

4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Gently toss the salad to evenly distribute the dressing and ingredients. Top with 6 oz crumbled feta cheese and 1/2 cup halved Kalamata olives. Give the salad one last gentle toss to incorporate the cheese and olives.

5. Let it Marinate:
Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

6. Serve:
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your zesty, flavorful Mediterranean Rotini Salad as a refreshing lunch option!

Total Time

PT40M
40 minutes

Type of Dish

Lunch

Keywords

Mediterranean, Pasta Salad, Rotini, Feta Cheese, Olive Oil, Fresh Vegetables, Zesty Dressing, Refreshing Dish, Cold Salad, Easy-to-Make

Recipe Yield

Feeds 4 adults

Calories

Total Calories: 1,600

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