Description
Mediterranean pasta is a light and flavorful dish made with fresh Mediterranean ingredients like tomatoes, olives, feta, and herbs. It’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or parsley)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Stir in the sliced olives, dried oregano, and salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to help combine everything and create a light sauce. Toss to combine.
- Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil. If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for extra flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- Serve the Mediterranean pasta warm, garnished with fresh lemon zest and extra basil or parsley, if desired.
Notes
- For a vegan version, skip the feta and use a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- If you like spicy dishes, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: undefined
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
