Greek Pasta Salad with Transparent Tomato Jelly Cubes 🍅✨🍝
Ingredients:
• For the Herb-Grilled Chicken:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Greek Pasta Salad:
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• For the Transparent Tomato Jelly Cubes:
• 1 cup tomato juice (preferably freshly made or high-quality)
• 1 tsp agar-agar powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• For the Basil-Infused Greek Yogurt Dressing:
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate and Grill the Chicken:
• In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes.
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
• Once cooked, remove from the grill and let the chicken rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Penne Pasta:
• Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
3. Prepare the Transparent Tomato Jelly Cubes:
• In a small saucepan, heat the tomato juice over medium heat. Add the salt and fresh lemon juice.
• Stir in the agar-agar powder and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to dissolve the agar-agar.
• Remove from heat and pour the tomato mixture into a shallow dish. Allow it to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for about 1-2 hours, or until set.
• Once set, cut the jelly into small, transparent cubes.
4. Make the Basil-Infused Greek Yogurt Dressing:
• In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Assemble the Salad:
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta, grilled chicken slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
• Gently toss the salad and top with the transparent tomato jelly cubes.
6. Serve:
• Drizzle with the basil-infused Greek yogurt dressing and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 400-500 per serving (depending on portion sizes and toppings)
This Greek Pasta Salad with Transparent Tomato Jelly Cubes is a stunning, modern dish that combines vibrant flavors and innovative techniques. It’s the perfect addition to any gathering or a fun, refreshing meal to enjoy! 🍅✨🍗🍝