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Achieving the perfect al dente texture in your pasta is crucial for a delightful Mediterranean Bliss Pasta Salad. Begin by selecting high-quality pasta; fusilli, rotini, or penne work beautifully due to their ability to hold onto the dressing and other ingredients. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt not only flavors the pasta but also helps to enhance its overall taste.

Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Discover the vibrant world of Mediterranean cuisine with the Mediterranean Bliss Pasta Salad, a dish that beautifully combines fresh and colorful ingredients. This easy-to-make salad features tri-color rotini pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta, all tossed in a simple and delicious dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad is not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a must-try for health-conscious food lovers. Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of the Mediterranean diet with every bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz tri-color rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1 cup bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. This will cool it down and keep the pasta firm. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.

    Prep the Veggies: While the pasta is cooling, wash and chop the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes; dice the cucumber and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces; finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley. Add all these vibrant vegetables to the bowl with the cooled pasta.

      Add the Olives and Feta: Gently fold in the halved Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese into the pasta and vegetable mixture, ensuring not to break the feta too much.

        Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and garlic powder (if using). Whisk or shake vigorously to emulsify the mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

          Combine and Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all of the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid to keep the salad fresh. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean!

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

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta salad in a large serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for an extra pop of color. You can also add a few extra olives and feta on top for decoration.