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In recent years, Mediterranean cuisine has surged in popularity, captivating food lovers across the globe with its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and emphasis on healthy eating. This culinary trend celebrates the rich and diverse food cultures of countries that border the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain. Among the many delightful offerings from this region, one dish stands out for its versatility and refreshing qualities: Chilled Greek Pasta Skewers.

Chilled Greek Pasta Skewers

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with Chilled Greek Pasta Skewers, a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or light lunches. Combining cooked pasta with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, these skewers are as nutritious as they are flavorful. Easy to make and versatile, this dish caters to various dietary preferences while providing a delightful blend of textures. Enjoy these light, colorful bites that are sure to impress!

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) fusilli or penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 cup feta cheese, cubed

½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden skewers)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the fusilli or penne pasta, cooking according to the package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside in a large mixing bowl.

    Prepare the Veggies: While the pasta cools, wash and prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the red onion and parsley, and pit and halve the Kalamata olives. Gather all these colorful ingredients together in a large bowl.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and emulsified.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the prepared vegetables. Gently fold in the cubed feta cheese and the dressing. Toss everything together until all components are evenly coated in the dressing and well mixed.

          Assemble the Skewers: Take the soaked skewers and begin assembling by threading a piece of pasta followed by a cherry tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, feta cube, olive, and a bit of red onion. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving some space at the ends for easy handling.

            Chill: Once all your skewers are assembled, place them on a large serving platter. Cover the platter with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

              Serve: When ready to serve, take the skewers out of the refrigerator. Arrange them neatly on a serving platter and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy them cold as a refreshing appetizer or a delightful side dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 6 servings

                  Optional Presentation Tips: For an attractive presentation, consider serving the skewers in a tall glass or standing them in a bed of greens. You can also add lemon wedges for a zesty touch!