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A top-down smartphone photo of rotini pasta salad with a glossy vinaigrette, perfect for Cold BBQ Side Dishes.

Cold BBQ Side Dishes: The Ultimate Mediterranean Rotini Pasta Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad featuring al dente rotini, feta cheese, and crisp vegetables tossed in a glossy herb vinaigrette. The perfect make-ahead side dish for summer cookouts and family BBQs.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 cups
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mediterranean Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 16 oz Rotini Pasta 450g, cooked al dente
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes 150g, halved
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives 75g, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Red Bell Pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup Green Bell Pepper diced
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion 40g, finely chopped
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese 150g, cubed
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 120ml
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar 60ml
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano 2g
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley 15g, chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 White ceramic bowl For mixing and serving
  • 1 Small Glass Jar For emulsifying the vinaigrette

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water immediately.
  2. In a small jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, Dijon, and dried oregano. Shake or whisk until glossy and emulsified.
  3. In a large ceramic bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, olives, peppers, onions, and feta cheese.
  4. Pour dressing over the salad, toss gently to coat, and top with fresh parsley. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rinse the pasta thoroughly to ensure the dressing stays glossy and translucent.
Cube the feta instead of crumbling it for a cleaner, more professional look.