Description
A fresh and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish made with penne, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, salty Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, and a light lemon olive oil dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, easy dinners, or refreshing pasta salads.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate before serving for a chilled pasta salad.
Notes
- This pasta can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Whole wheat pasta works well for a heartier texture.
- Fresh basil or dill can be added for extra herb flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil before reheating to refresh the texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
