Saturday, May 8, 2010

Greek Style Pasta Salad


Prep time: 30minues
10 serving- I usually cut the ingredients to half so it wont be too much for only two person

Dressing:
- 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano leaves or 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic,finely chopped.

Salad:
- 3 cups uncooked rotini pasta (8oz)
- 4oz hard salami slices, quartered
- 1 medium cucumber,seeded, cut into chunks
- 1 small green bell pepper, cut into thin bite-sized strips
- 2 medium tomatoes, cut into wedges, then cut into half
- 1/2 cup sliced kalamata or other Greek olives
- 1/4 cup sliced fresh basil leaves or 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 6oz feta cheese, crumbled (1 1/2 cups)

1. In blender or food processor bowl , place all dressing ingredients, Cover; blend on medium speed about 20 seconds or until smooth, set aside.

2. Cook and drain pasta as directed on package. Rinse with cold water to cool; drain

3. In 4-quart bowl, place pasta and remaining salad ingredients. add dressing; toss gently. serve immediately.