Summer Slim Greek Pasta Salad

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Summer Slim Greek Pasta Salad. This recipe combines wholesome whole grain pasta with a colorful array of crisp vegetables and a tangy, zesty dressing, making it an ideal choice for a nutritious lunch or a refreshing picnic side.

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This salad is designed to be as beautiful as it is delicious. By using a mix of red and yellow bell peppers along with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, you create a visually stunning dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 225 g (8 oz) whole grain fusilli or penne
• Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup cucumber (diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 yellow bell pepper (diced), ½ small red onion (thinly sliced), 1 cup baby spinach (roughly chopped), ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Additions: ⅓ cup kalamata olives (pitted and sliced), 100 g (3.5 oz) light feta cheese (crumbled)
• Dressing: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 garlic clove (finely minced), 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp sea salt, ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the whole grain pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2

In a large salad bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, spinach, and parsley.

Step 3

Add the cooled pasta, olives, and crumbled light feta to the bowl.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 5

Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring even coating.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Rinsing the pasta under cold water is a crucial step. It stops the cooking process immediately, ensuring the pasta stays al dente and doesn't become gummy when mixed with the other ingredients. This also helps cool the dish quickly if you're serving it right away.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this salad to suit your needs. Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for a protein boost. For a vegan version, simply swap the feta for a dairy-free cheese alternative. If you want more texture, consider adding sliced radishes or snap peas for extra crunch.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this refreshing pasta salad chilled. It pairs exceptionally well with a glass of chilled rosé or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. It's a great standalone meal but also works perfectly as a side dish for grilled fish or Mediterranean-style skewers.

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With 355 calories and 13g of protein per serving, this Summer Slim Greek Pasta Salad is a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic Mediterranean meal that keeps you feeling energized and satisfied.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta for this salad?

Yes, substituting whole grain pasta with gluten-free options works well to accommodate dietary needs without compromising texture.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated and consume within 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

→ What is the best way to prepare the dressing?

Whisk extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified for an even, flavorful coating.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or plant-based alternatives can be incorporated to boost protein content and make it more filling.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Light feta can be swapped for dairy-free cheese to suit vegan or lactose-free diets while preserving the creamy element.