Crispy Pasta Salad with Feta and Colorful Veggies
A vibrant, crunchy pasta salad with lightly toasted pasta, fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a flavorful dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
ounces rotini or penne pasta, 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 cup cucumber diced, 1/2 cup red bell pepper diced, 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped, 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled, 1/4 cup black olives sliced optional, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon paprika, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons pine nuts or toasted sunflower seeds optional
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and pat dry. 2. Toast pasta in a skillet with olive oil until lightly golden. 3. Prepare vegetables: halve tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell pepper, chop onion. 4. Whisk dressing: olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika. 5. Combine pasta, vegetables, feta, and optional nuts. 6. Pour dressing over and toss gently. 7. Fold in parsley. 8. Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Adjust vegetables, herbs, or cheese as desired. Store components separately if making ahead. Avoid over-toasting pasta.