Description

Viral Pasta Salad is a combination of fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and savory herbs, making it a colorful, refreshing, and satisfying dish. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering, this salad is bursting with vibrant flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup cucumber, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup Italian dressing

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Veggies: While the pasta is cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion. Slice the black olives and crumble the feta cheese.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Italian dressing, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing mixture over the salad.
Toss and Chill: Gently toss the salad to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Serve: Before serving, toss the salad again and enjoy the burst of fresh, vibrant flavors!

Notes

Use any short pasta, such as rotini, fusilli, or farfalle, for the best texture.

This salad is perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or spinach to customize the salad.

For a creamier version, mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the Italian dressing.

If you prefer a different cheese, swap feta with mozzarella, goat cheese, or cheddar.

Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or your favorite protein to make this salad more filling.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 180
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg