Ingredients

1 cup olive oil
4 tablespoons white wine vinegar
6 garlic cloves , minced
1 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/4 cups crumbled feta cheese ( with herbs , if possible )
1 1/3 cups milk ( or buttermilk )
ground black pepper , to taste
1 lb penne pasta ( or any other chunky pasta )
1 red pepper , chopped
1 yellow pepper , chopped
1 orange bell pepper , chopped
2 pints cherry tomatoes
1 red onion , chopped
1 English cucumber , chopped
1/2 cup kalamata olive , sliced and pitted ( more , to taste )
Zesty Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is inspired by the Mediterranean cuisine. It combines chunky pasta with a variety of colorful vegetables, such as peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers, and tangy kalamata olives, all tossed in a zesty dressing made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, and garlic. This salad is perfect for a summer barbecue or as a light lunch on a hot day. It can be served on its own or as a side dish to grilled meat or fish. The dish is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep.

Instructions

1.Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Place pasta in a large mixing bowl.
2.In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, crumbled feta cheese, milk, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3.Add chopped red pepper, yellow pepper, orange bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, English cucumber, and kalamata olives to the large mixing bowl with pasta.
4.Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

PROS

This dish is packed with fresh and healthy vegetables and olives, making it a great choice for a light meal or side dish for a summer barbecue.

The zesty dressing made with olive oil, white wine vinegar, and garlic adds a burst of flavor to the salad.

CONS

The pasta and crumbled feta cheese can make this dish high in calories and fat if not eaten in moderation.

Some people may be allergic to or not enjoy the taste of certain ingredients in the salad, such as olives.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The vegetables in this salad, such as peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers, are high in vitamins and minerals and can help support overall health.
Olives are high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and can help reduce inflammation in the body.

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