Creamy Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
The pairing suggestions for creamy Greek pasta salad are excellent! Grilled chicken skewers, garlic bread, fresh fruit salad, and crispy roasted vegetables offer a great mix of flavors and textures to complement the creamy salad.
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Servings: 6 Servings
Calories: 215kcal
Equipment
- Large Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta such as fusilli penne, or farfalle (whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives work well)
- 1 1/4 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 garlic clove finely minced
- 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 seedless cucumber chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 3/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives halved
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Now, let’s dive into making this delightful salad!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
- In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This dressing is the heart of your salad, providing a rich flavor profile.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
- While the pasta is cooling, chop your vegetables. Dice the cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion.
- These colorful additions elevate not only the flavor but also the aesthetic appeal of your dish.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, veggies, Kalamata olives, capers, and feta cheese. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and mix gently until everything is well-coated. This is where the magic happens—the colors, textures, and flavors intertwine.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the flavors to deepen.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the salad’s taste. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente for the best texture. Overcooked pasta absorbs too much dressing, resulting in a soggy salad.
- Spice It Up: Don’t shy away from experimenting. Add crushed red pepper for a kick or extra olives for more richness.
- Dress Right Before Serving: If making ahead, wait to toss the salad in dressing until just before serving to keep it from becoming soggy.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning as per your preference. Everyone’s palate is different; what tastes perfect to one might need a little adjustment for another.