The Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the best of seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, featuring a mix of succulent shrimp, juicy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing. This salad is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner, and its colorful presentation makes it an excellent choice for outdoor gatherings and picnics. With its rich flavors and textures, the Mediterranean Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite among seafood lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Preparation
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente
- Step 2: Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool
- Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing
- Step 4: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss to combine
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with the minced garlic and set aside
- Step 6: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side
- Step 7: Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl with the pasta and dressing
- Step 8: Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl and toss to combine
- Step 9: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the salad and serve immediately
Chef’s Tip: To enhance the flavors of the Mediterranean Pasta Salad, make sure to use high-quality and fresh ingredients, and do not overcook the shrimp or the pasta, as this can result in a tough and unappetizing texture
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