Shelly's Recipe

GREEK PASTA SALAD

Category: Pasta Salads

Salad
1 (16 oz) pkg cavatappi pasta or elbow macaroni
1 pint grape tomatoes, washed, halved
1/2 (7 0z) jar kalamata olive pieces in brine, drained
5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 large red onion, peeled, diced
1/2 hot house cucumber, seeded, diced
1/2 large bunch radishes, washed, ends removed, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped flat leaf parsley

Dressing
1/8 cup red wine vinegar
1 cloves garlic, peeled
2 oz feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 tbsp dried oregano and sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper and all-purpose seasoning
3/4 cups olive oil

To make the salad: Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Spread the pasta out on a baking sheet to dry for 30 to 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare all the remaining salad ingredients and place them in a large serving bowl. Add the pasta and toss together.

To make the dressing: In a blender or food processor place the red wine vinegar, garlic, feta cheese, oregano, sugar, salt, pepper and seasoning blend. Pulse to chop up the garlic and cheese. With the machine running, slowly and in a steady stream add the olive oil and process until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The dressing should be salty enough from the feta cheese; try not to over-salt.

Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss to thoroughly combine and serve. Or you can make both the salad and the dressing a day in advance, pouring the dressing over the salad and combining just before serving.