Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Mediterranean pasta salad is a bright and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese gives this salad a complex and satisfying flavor profile. The salad is also easy to make and can be served as a main course or a side dish.

The origins of this Mediterranean pasta salad are shrouded in mystery, but it is thought to have originated in Italy. The salad is typically made with dried pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese. However, there are many variations on the recipe, and some people also add ingredients such as artichokes, bell peppers, or cucumbers. This salad is a popular dish in Italy and is often served as a main course or a side dish. It is also a popular dish to bring to picnics or potlucks.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces (340 grams) dried pasta
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup (20 grams) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup (20 grams) kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup (20 grams) red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Add the cooled pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta cheese to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

Why It Works

• The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese gives this salad a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
• The salad is easy to make and can be served as a main course or a side dish.
• The salad is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.