Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
A vibrant and easy-to-make Mediterranean pasta salad featuring salty feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or farfalle) Choose your favorite type for this vibrant dish.
- 1 cup Olives (black or green) Use pitted olives for an easy, briny flavor.
- 4 ounces Feta cheese (crumbled) Creamy and salty, this cheese adds richness.
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil Lends a fruity depth to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish with its zesty tang.
- 1 clove Garlic (minced, optional) Provides an aromatic foundation if desired.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or mint) Adds freshness and a splash of color.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Cook your choice of pasta according to the package instructions in well-salted water. Once cooked, drain and allow it to cool slightly.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with pitted olives and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic (if using), fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing everything together to ensure all the ingredients are well coated.
Finishing Touches
- Add freshly chopped herbs of your choice and toss a second time for an explosion of flavors.
- Serve the Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta chilled or at room temperature for the best taste.
Notes
For added texture and flavor, try adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Experiment with different types of pasta to find your perfect pairing. Leftover dressing can be drizzled over roasted vegetables for a fantastic side dish.