Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Greek pasta with feta and olives (25-minutes) is a delightful Mediterranean dish that brings together vibrant flavors in a short amount of time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe features fresh cherry tomatoes and briny Kalamata olives, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal. With its bold taste and simplicity, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh Ingredients: Bursting with the flavors of fresh tomatoes and herbs, every bite is a taste of the Mediterranean.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm as a main course or serve it cold as a refreshing pasta salad.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe serves four and is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, it’s both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, let’s gather our essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly while ensuring it has enough space to cook properly.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly without losing any ingredients when rinsing.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and onions to enhance their flavors before mixing with the pasta.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Greek pasta with feta and olives (25-minutes), you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ small red onion (finely chopped)

For the Sauce

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For Garnish

• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed for sauce)
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta of your choice. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil.
2. Add minced garlic and finely chopped red onion. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives to the skillet. Stir well.
2. Season with lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.

Step 4: Toss with Pasta

1. Combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed mixture in the skillet.
2. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually to reach desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from heat and fold in crumbled feta cheese.
2. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Greek pasta with feta and olives—perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Greek pasta with feta and olives is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette complements the pasta perfectly.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a smoky flavor and additional nutrients to your meal.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into any leftover juices or sauce from the pasta.

Lemon Wedges

• Offering lemon wedges allows guests to add a zesty touch that brightens up the dish even more.

Extra Feta Cheese

• Provide additional crumbled feta on the side for those who love an extra creamy and tangy flavor.

Fresh Basil Sprigs

• Garnish each plate with fresh basil sprigs for an aromatic touch and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Making Greek pasta with feta and olives is simple, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results. Here are some ways to elevate your dish:

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente for the perfect texture that holds up well in the dish.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.

• Toss Gently: Mix ingredients gently to avoid breaking the feta cheese too much, preserving its creamy texture.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference for flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Pairing side dishes with Greek pasta can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here’s a list of perfect companions:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based dip made with cucumbers and garlic; perfect for adding a cool contrast.

2. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs; toss it together quickly for added nutrition.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side; simply coat them in olive oil and spices before baking.

4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice, herbs, and spices complement Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

5. Hummus Platter: Serve assorted hummus varieties alongside pita chips or veggies for a colorful appetizer.

6. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad made with toasted pita chips, mixed greens, radishes, and a tangy dressing; it adds crunch and freshness.

7. Olive Tapenade: This spread made from finely chopped olives, capers, and herbs pairs wonderfully as a dip or spread on bread.

8. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp cooked on skewers add protein; marinate them briefly before grilling for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek pasta with feta and olives, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Using Overcooked Pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy. Always follow the package instructions and taste for al dente texture.

• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving some pasta water can lead to a dry dish. This starchy water helps bind the sauce and improves the overall flavor.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season well can result in bland pasta. Make sure to adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

• Forgetting Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like basil as a garnish can reduce flavor complexity. Add fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of freshness.

• Not Mixing Ingredients Thoroughly: If you don’t mix the ingredients well, some bites may lack flavor. Toss everything together until evenly combined for balanced taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek pasta with feta and olives in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Greek pasta with feta and olives that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use whole grain pasta for Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?

Yes! Whole grain pasta is a nutritious alternative that works well with this recipe while adding extra fiber.

What type of olives should I use?

Kalamata olives offer a rich flavor but feel free to substitute them with green olives if preferred.

How can I customize my Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition, or switch out feta cheese for a dairy-free option using nutritional yeast.

Is Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it great for easy lunches or dinners.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Greek pasta with feta and olives is not only quick but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your taste. The bold flavors make it an excellent choice for any meal. We encourage you to try this delicious recipe today!