Greek Pasta Salad 🍝🥗

This vibrant and flavorful Greek Pasta Salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for your summer barbecues. Bursting with fresh vegetables and tangy feta, it's a refreshing dish that’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. You can also customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.

Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch! 🌞

Ingredients

For the dressing

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon sugar

For the salad

• 2 1/2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 3 cups fresh sliced mushrooms
• 15 cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup sliced red bell peppers
• 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 (4-ounce) can whole black olives
• 3/4 cup sliced pepperoni sausage (optional)

Instructions

• In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, basil, oregano, black pepper, and sugar until well combined.

🥄 Mixing the dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your salad.

• Add the cooked elbow macaroni, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, red bell peppers, feta cheese, green onions, olives, and pepperoni (if using) to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.

🥗 For a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni and consider adding more veggies or chickpeas for extra protein!

• Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This helps to infuse the flavors together.

Variations

• Whole wheat pasta: Swap elbow macaroni for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Add protein: Toss in grilled shrimp, chicken, or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.
• Herb swap: Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill instead of dried herbs for a fresh twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta for a delicious option everyone can enjoy.

Enjoy your Greek Pasta Salad, bursting with delightful flavors and fresh ingredients! 🎉🥗