There’s something magical about a bowl of Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad. Picture this: a vibrant mix of al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. This dish embodies summer in every bite, making you feel as if you’re lounging on a sun-soaked Grecian beach while the waves serenade you.
I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic. My friends were skeptical at first, but one bite transformed their doubt into delight. It became the highlight of our gathering, proving that sometimes, all you need is a delicious salad to make lasting memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This salad is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to whip it up in no time.
- The flavors burst with freshness and zest, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
- Its colorful presentation makes it a showstopper on any table or gathering.
- Perfect for picnics or as a side dish at barbecues, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion.
I once brought Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad to a family reunion, and let me tell you, it was gone faster than Aunt Mabel could finish her third helping of potato salad.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Pasta: I prefer using rotini or penne for their ability to capture the dressing and veggies perfectly.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they add sweetness and color to the dish.
Cucumber: Look for firm cucumbers; they provide crunch and freshness that balance the other ingredients.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite; soak it in cold water if you prefer less intensity.
Feta Cheese: Use crumbly feta for its creamy texture; it gives the salad its signature tangy flavor.
Olives: Kalamata olives bring richness; pit them and slice them for an added touch of Mediterranean flair.
Dressing Ingredients (Olive Oil, Lemon Juice): Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors; high-quality olive oil enhances the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop your cherry tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Slice your red onion thinly—your kitchen should now be filled with fresh aromas.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste; this dressing will tie everything together beautifully.
Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled slightly, combine it with your chopped veggies in a large mixing bowl. Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese and olives for extra flavor.
Toss with Dressing: Pour your zesty dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated—get ready for those mouthwatering scents!
Chill Before Serving: Allow your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld all those delightful flavors together—trust me; it’s worth it!
Enjoying Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad is not just about savoring its delightful flavors; it’s about relishing every moment spent preparing it as well!
Content
Fresh herbs elevate your Greek pasta salad; try basil or dill for an aromatic boost. I once added too much oregano and learned the hard way that less is more in flavor balance.
Colorful veggies make your dish pop; add red bell peppers or purple onions for a vibrant look. Once, my salad looked like a rainbow exploded, and it tasted just as good!
Use quality feta cheese; it enhances the flavors and adds creaminess. I swapped cheap feta once, and trust me, the difference was night and day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Cook your pasta al dente to ensure it holds up when mixed with dressing and veggies. Toss everything together gently to keep that delightful texture intact.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding olives, chickpeas, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Feel free to swap out any ingredients based on what you love most.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Greek pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Avoid reheating as fresh salads taste best cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for dressing; it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Always taste before serving, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
- Consider letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld beautifully.
I remember the first time I made Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad for a potluck. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well without compromising flavor or texture.
How long can I store leftovers of this salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
What can I substitute for feta cheese in this recipe?
Try using goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re avoiding feta cheese.
Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad
Ashley Mac’s Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer. With al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home. Its colorful presentation and delightful flavors will make it the star of any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and let cool.
- While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes and cucumber, and slice the red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped vegetables. Gently fold in feta cheese and olives.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or dill for extra flavor. You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
