Greek Pasta Salad

greksgirl's Note:

I found a greek dressing recipe that we liked from Zaar (I think it was one of Kittencal's) and went from there. My DH loves just about anything with Feta on it. I don't use fresh basil enough to keep it on hand so I use a jarred kind (Polaner Chopped ready to use). The salad is best if you let the dressing chill but I have made it at the last minute also, I just make the dressing first and chill while doing the rest.

• Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 2 hrs

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

For Dressing

• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 6 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2-3/4 tablespoon oregano
• 3/4 tablespoon fresh basil
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3/4 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated

For salad

• 1 1/2 cups spiral shaped pasta
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 small celery ribs, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato, julienne-cut, cut in half (either cover with boiling water or place in bottom of strainer and drain the pasta over them)
• 1/4 cup kalamata olive, sliced
• 1/2-3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Directions:

1. Combine the dressing ingredients and mix well, chill for at least 1 hour.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions and drain, do not rinse.
3. Combine all ingredients, in a medium sized bowl with the pasta and tomatoes on top, pour a small amount of the dressing over the hot pasta and toss gently to coat. Add more dressing so that all ingredients are well coated.
4. Chill before serving.

Reviews

[**Tinkerbell**]

I cut this recipe down to serve 2, as DH & DS won't eat anything with feta. Both tried the recipe & DS said he actually thought it was good if he picked out the cheese. On the other hand, I thought it was delish! I loved the dressing & every ingredient in the salad had it's own flavor to contribute. Nothing was overpowering. I didn't realize I was out of celery (I had a peanut butter craving a few nights ago) so I added about a teaspoon of celery seed to the dressing. I'll make this again for myself or others I may be cooking for that don't have a fear of feta. ;) Thanks for another super recipe, greksgirl! Made & enjoyed for Fall 2009 Pick A Chef. You've been adopted! :) http://www.recipezaar.com/bb/viewtopic.zsp?t=310505&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0