Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 250g penne pasta
• 100g cherry vine tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 100g black olives, pitted and halved
• 100g feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)

Method

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, halved black olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat the ingredients evenly.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld.
6. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves before serving.