Ingredients: – 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or rotini) – 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese – 1/4 cup sliced black olive – 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar – 1 clove garlic, minced – Salt and pepper to taste – Optional: chopped red onion, diced cucumber, or pine nuts for added flavor and texture
Cook the Pasta: – Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Dressing: – In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Combine Ingredients: – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, sliced black olives, and chopped fresh basil.
If using additional ingredients like chopped red onion, diced cucumber, or pine nuts, add them to the bowl as well.
Add the Dressing: – Pour the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve: – Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tomato feta pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy: – Serve the tomato feta pasta salad as a refreshing and satisfying side dish or light meal. It's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a quick and easy lunch option.