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Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated not only for its vibrant flavors but also for its impressive health benefits. Bursting with fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins, dishes from this region are often rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants. The Mediterranean diet has been linked to numerous health advantages, including improved heart health, weight management, and reduced inflammation. In this culinary tradition, simplicity and freshness take center stage, making it an ideal choice for any meal.

Greek Pasta Salad with Tzatziki Dressing

Discover a refreshing twist on pasta salad with this Mediterranean Bliss Pasta Salad featuring a creamy Tzatziki dressing. Bursting with vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, this colorful dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light meals, it's easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Experience the delightful flavors of Mediterranean cuisine and enjoy a wholesome meal that's good for your health!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 225 g) pasta (fusilli or penne recommended)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced

1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Tzatziki Dressing:

1 cup Greek yogurt

1/2 cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (substitute with 1 teaspoon dried dill if needed)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, typically between 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it immediately under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set it aside to allow further cooling.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, wash and chop the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and bell pepper. Also, halve the pitted Kalamata olives. Place all the chopped vegetables into a large mixing bowl and set aside.

      Make the Tzatziki Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with the grated cucumber (make sure to remove excess moisture), minced garlic, and chopped dill. Add the olive oil and lemon juice, stirring until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to your liking.

        Combine Ingredients: Return to the large mixing bowl with the prepared vegetables and add the cooled pasta. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Drizzle the tzatziki dressing generously over the salad.

          Toss and Serve: Carefully toss all the ingredients in the bowl until everything is evenly coated with the tzatziki dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

            Chill: To enhance the flavors, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, allowing the ingredients to meld and the flavors to develop.

              Enjoy: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, making it a delightful side dish or a refreshing light main course.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings

                    Presentation Tips: Consider serving the pasta salad in a large, shallow bowl garnished with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for an appealing presentation. Add lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty flavor boost!