Penne Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese
Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a quick weekday meal? Look no further than our flavorful Penne Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese recipe! This vibrant salad is a wonderful combination of hearty pasta, crisp veggies, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/3 cup kalamata olives, sliced
– 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or vinegar.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Just before serving, give the pasta salad a final gentle toss to ensure that the dressing is well distributed.
8. Garnish with additional parsley or crumbled feta cheese if desired, and enjoy this delicious Penne Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese!
This colorful and flavorful pasta salad is a fantastic addition to any potluck, picnic, or meal. The combination of tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and fresh veggies creates a medley of textures and tastes that will delight your taste buds. It’s a versatile dish that can easily be customized by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option, as the flavors only get better with time in the fridge. Perfect for busy days or when you just want something simple and delicious, this Penne Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese is sure to become a family favorite!
