IT'S GREEK TO ME! PASTA SALAD!

It's Greek To Me! Pasta Salad! image

Provided by Colleen Sowa

Time 15m

Number Of Ingredients 20

DRESSING
3/4 c olive oil
1/2 c lemon juice, fresh
1/4 c red wine vinegar
2 Tbsp mint, fresh (or dried) minced fine
1 1/2 Tbsp each: fresh or dried oregano and fresh or dried basil (crushed)
5 clove garlic (finely minced)
1/3 tsp sea salt
1/3 tsp ground black pepper
1 Tbsp anchovy paste (optional)
PASTA SALAD
5 c raw pasta of choice (i use fusilloni) (cook as directed on package)
1 - 2 c grape tomatoes
2 - 4 green onions (sliced thin)
1/2 - 1 c kalamata olives (pitted)
1/2 - 1 c green olives (pitted)
1 - 5 oz (up to a cup) feta cheese (crumbled) (to taste)
OPTIOAL:
1 - 2 c grilled chicken breast (sliced or cubed)
6 - 12 medium greek style hot peppers

Steps:

1. Use a whisk to beat together the dressing ingredients. Refrigerate until needed.
2. Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package. Rinse. Drain well.
3. Place all of the salad ingredients into a large bowl and gently but thoroughly toss together. Put in a covered container and refrigerate about 2 to 3 hours. Serve family style or in individual bowls.