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As the temperature rises and the sun shines bright, the craving for light, refreshing meals becomes almost irresistible. One such dish that perfectly embodies the essence of summer is the Chilled Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad. This vibrant salad combines the wholesome goodness of whole wheat pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a deliciously nutritious option for gatherings, picnics, or simply meal prep for busy days ahead. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and healthy lunch, this pasta salad is sure to impress and satisfy.

Cold Mediterranean Veggie Pasta

Discover the perfect summer dish with Chilled Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad! This vibrant and refreshing salad is made with whole wheat penne, a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty dressing of extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Ideal for picnics, BBQs, or meal prep, this nutritious recipe not only delights your palate but also supports heart health and overall well-being. Enjoy a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. whole wheat penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup bell peppers (choose from red, yellow, or orange), diced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside in a colander to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: As the pasta cools, take a large mixing bowl and combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, halved Kalamata olives, finely chopped red onion, and diced bell peppers. Stir them gently to mix.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the mixed vegetables. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the entire mixture, and using a spatula, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated.

          Add Cheese and Herbs: Carefully fold in the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped parsley, being gentle to avoid crumbling the feta too much. This adds a delightful creaminess to the salad.

            Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

              Serve: Just before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. If desired, sprinkle additional crumbled feta and fresh parsley on top for a touch of garnish. Enjoy your refreshing Chilled Mediterranean Veggie Pasta Salad!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling) | Servings: 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the salad in a large, colorful bowl. For an added touch, garnish with thin slices of lemon or extra olives around the edges for a beautiful display.