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Once your ingredients are prepared and cooked, the next crucial step is combining them effectively to ensure even distribution and flavor in every bite. Start by placing your cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl. This is essential because it allows you to mix without the risk of steaming or cooking any of the other ingredients further.

Cold Pasta Salad

Discover the Mediterranean Escape Cold Pasta Salad, a colorful, healthy dish perfect for warm weather gatherings. Featuring whole wheat pasta, vibrant veggies like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and a delicious homemade dressing, this salad is both nourishing and satisfying. It's versatile enough for picnics, BBQs, or light lunches, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy the refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful salad!
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Ingredients
  

10 oz whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, slice the olives, and finely chop the red onion and parsley.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the mixture, and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

          Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This will enhance the taste of the salad.

            Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Enjoy chilled as a refreshing side dish or light main course!

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6