Ingredients
Method
Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain completely and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Roast the Vegetables:
- Toss the diced zucchini and whole cherry tomatoes in a hot skillet or on a sheet pan with a light drizzle of olive oil. Cook for 3–4 minutes over medium-high heat until the tomato skins blister and wrinkle, and the zucchini is tender with a light char. Set aside to cool slightly.
Whisk the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until fully emulsified.
Assemble the Salad:
- Add the cooled blistered tomatoes, roasted zucchini, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced English cucumbers, and halved Kalamata olives to the bowl with the penne pasta.
Dress and Toss:
- Pour the prepared lemon-herb vinaigrette evenly over the pasta salad. Toss gently using salad spoons until all elements are thoroughly coated.
Finish and Garnish:
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and torn fresh basil leaves. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a light dust of feta before serving. Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Notes
- To make this recipe ahead, reserve a small splash of the dressing and toss it in just before serving to restore its beautiful shine.
- Do not use wine or pork products in any variations of this recipe to maintain its clean, traditional flavor profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Do not freeze.
- Do not use wine or pork products in any variations of this recipe to maintain its clean, traditional flavor profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Do not freeze.
