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As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, our culinary choices often shift toward lighter, more refreshing meals. The Mediterranean diet, renowned for its emphasis on wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, offers an excellent framework for crafting nutritious dishes that delight the senses while promoting overall well-being. At the heart of this culinary tradition lies the Chilled Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad, a dish that encapsulates the essence of the Mediterranean lifestyle with its nutritious components and refreshing taste.

Cold Mediterranean Veggie Pasta

Beat the heat with a refreshing Chilled Mediterranean Delight Pasta Salad, perfect for sunny days! This vibrant dish features whole wheat penne pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese—all tossed in a zesty dressing. Embrace the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet with nutrient-packed ingredients that enhance both flavor and well-being. This pasta salad is not only delicious but also an ideal way to enjoy lighter, balanced meals during warm weather. Try it at your next gathering!
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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 (red, yellow, or orange), diced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

3 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, prepare the vegetables. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, Kalamata olives, chopped red onion, and diced bell peppers.

      Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta is cool, add it to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until well combined.

          Add Cheese and Herbs: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley, taking care not to break the feta too much.

            Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

              Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and sprinkle additional feta and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your refreshing Cold Mediterranean Veggie Pasta!

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