Description
Inspired by the bold, briny flavors of a classic Dirty Martini, this Dirty Martini Pasta Salad is a game-changer! Featuring green olives, feta cheese, and a tangy olive-brine dressing, this dish is a refreshing, indulgent twist on traditional pasta salad. Perfect for picnics, parties, and meal prep, this salad is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- ½ pound pasta of choice (e.g., Mafalda Corta, rotini, or gluten-free pasta)
- 1 cup pitted large green olives, roughly chopped (Manzanilla, Castelvetrano, or Cerignola)
- 100g feta cheese, cubed (or substitute with blue cheese or goat cheese)
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup olive brine (from the olive jar)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest of ½ a lemon
- Juice of ¼ lemon
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small mason jar or bowl, combine olive oil, olive brine, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and black pepper.
- Shake or whisk well to blend.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with chopped olives and cubed feta cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well coated.
Chill & Serve:
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
- Customization: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Less Salty Option: Reduce olive brine and replace with a splash of white wine vinegar.
- Extra Flavor: Top with shaved parmesan, roasted red peppers, or a handful of arugula for a Mediterranean twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: Mixing, Chilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired