Greek salad with spaghetti

Greek Salad with Spaghetti – a unique recipe full of flavors and textures

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

In the culinary world, salads have always been stars, but today I will present a delicious reinterpretation – Greek salad with spaghetti. This recipe combines the tradition of Mediterranean flavors with the comfort of pasta, offering a meal that not only satisfies but also excites the senses. It’s an excellent choice for quick lunches or light dinners, serving as a vibrant main course!

A brief story about Greek salad

Greek salad is a symbol of Mediterranean cuisine, appreciated for its fresh ingredients and flavor combinations. Its origin is lost in history, but it is often associated with sunny, cheerful summer meals. Today, we will add a modern twist by integrating spaghetti, transforming it into a hearty and delicious main dish.

Basic ingredients

- 100 g spaghetti
- 2 ripe and juicy tomatoes
- 1/2 crisp cucumber
- 50 g feta cheese (Hochland or another preferred variant)
- 50 g black olives (preferably pitted)
- 1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)

Preparing the spaghetti

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This step is crucial as the pasta will continue to cook slightly after you drain it.

2. Draining the pasta: Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and quickly rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool slightly.

Preparing the fresh ingredients

3. Chopping the vegetables: Wash the tomatoes and cucumber well. Cut the tomatoes into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. The cucumber can be sliced into rounds or halves to provide a crunchy texture.

4. Cubing the feta: Cut the feta cheese into small cubes so that it easily integrates into the salad, adding a salty and creamy note.

5. The olives: If using olives with pits, make sure to pit them before adding to the salad.

Assembling the salad

6. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, tomatoes, cucumber, feta, and olives. Gently toss so as not to crush the delicate ingredients.

7. Seasoning the salad: Add the extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Serve with style

8. Serving: This salad can be served immediately, but it’s even better if you let it sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it on a beautiful platter, garnished with a few fresh basil or dill leaves for a vibrant look.

Practical tips

- Choose fresh ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the more delicious the final result will be.
- Try variations: You can add various vegetables, such as bell peppers or red onion, to diversify the salad.
- Cheese variations: If you don’t have feta, you can use mozzarella, each bringing a unique note to the dish.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I add other ingredients? Of course! Greek salad with spaghetti is versatile. You can add avocado or tuna for an extra protein boost.
- How can I make the salad more filling? One option would be to add grilled chicken or boiled chickpeas, turning the salad into a hearty main dish.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also healthy! Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, cucumbers contain a lot of water, and feta provides a good source of calcium. Spaghetti, especially whole grain, offers carbohydrates to energize you.

Pairing ideas

For a complete culinary experience, try pairing this salad with a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade. Also, a slice of homemade bread or a piadina can turn the meal into a Mediterranean feast.

In conclusion, Greek salad with spaghetti is an excellent choice for those looking for a simple yet sophisticated recipe that impresses. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy a meal full of flavors and colors that will bring a ray of sunshine to your table!