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Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad is loaded with so many Mediterranean salad ingredients, and drizzled with an incredible Lemon Herb dressing!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 10
Calories: 279
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces penne pasta (dried)
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 pinch cracked pepper (to taste)
  • 4 cups Romaine lettuce (or cos lettuce leaves, washed and dried)
  • 1 cucumber (large, diced)
  • 1 avocado (peeled, pitted and chopped)
  • 1/2 red pepper (large, deseeded and cut into thin strips)
  • 9 ounces grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes, halved)
  • 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
  • ½ cup pitted kalamata olives (sliced)
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (drained)
  • 5-6 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese

Method
 

  1. Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain in a colander or strainer, then rinse under cold water to take the heat out. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  2. While pasta is boiling, prepare your dressing. Whisk together all of the marinade/dressing ingredients in a large jug.
  3. Add all of the salad ingredients into the salad bowl along with the pasta, and drizzle with the dressing. Toss all of the ingredients together until everything is coated evenly in dressing. Season with extra salt and pepper, if desired.
  4. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For perfectly cooked penne, aim for al dente by checking the pasta packaging for timing; it should be firm to the bite but not hard.
  • To keep your salad vibrant and fresh, add the dressing just before serving; this prevents the lettuce and other ingredients from wilting.
  • If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked pasta or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist; just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; the flavors will deepen, making it a delicious meal to look forward to.
  • For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream to the dressing, enhancing the richness without overpowering the lemony flavor.