Mediterranean Pasta
Mediterranean Pasta is a delightful celebration of fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients that transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, making it the perfect go-to for weeknight dinners, lunch meal prep, or a charming addition to your next outdoor gathering. What truly sets this pasta apart is its colorful mix of vegetables, the briny bite of olives, and the creamy crumbles of feta cheese that bring a refreshing twist to your traditional pasta dishes. It’s a symphony of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends!
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness by yourself, Mediterranean Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with nutrients, and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals. Don’t be surprised if this dish quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen!
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Gather your colorful ingredients for a delicious Mediterranean delight.
Directions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, add olive oil, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives. Cook over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add feta cheese, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient substitutions: Feel free to swap out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. You can also use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or spinach.
- Optional variations: For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dollop of pesto.
- Storage or reheating tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to maintain moisture.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
Generic image description or alt-text for the Mediterranean Pasta recipe.
Mediterranean Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Preparing the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add olive oil, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives. Cook over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add feta cheese, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until well mixed.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.