Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal that fits perfectly for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The balance of tangy feta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and briny olives creates a unique taste that will impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Fresh Ingredients: Packed with seasonal vegetables and herbs, it offers a burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of feta and olives ensures everyone will love this dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta; allows enough space for the pasta to cook evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and onions, enhancing their flavors before mixing with other ingredients.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while retaining the perfect amount of starchy water needed for the sauce.

Ingredients

To make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ small red onion (finely chopped)
• 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 the Topping

• 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 and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta using a colander.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. In a skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and finely chopped red onion; sauté until fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives.
2. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with vegetables.
2. Mix in lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives!

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

Serving Greek pasta with feta and olives is an excellent way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors. This dish can be presented in various styles to suit different occasions.

Casual Family Dinner

• Serve the pasta directly from the pot, allowing everyone to help themselves. Pair it with a simple green salad for a wholesome meal.

Elegant Dinner Party

• Plate individual servings using a pasta nest topped with crumbled feta and olives. Garnish with fresh basil for a visually appealing touch.

Quick Lunch Option

• Pack leftovers in a lunch container. The flavors will develop even more, making it a tasty option for work or school.

Picnic Delight

• Serve cold or at room temperature in a picnic-friendly container. Add some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal outdoors.

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

To enhance your Greek pasta with feta and olives, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Cook pasta al dente: Follow package instructions but aim for slightly undercooked pasta. It will absorb more sauce while resting.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to bring all flavors together.
• Add extra veggies: Consider incorporating spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Reserve pasta water: Keep some pasta water on hand to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different types of cheese like goat cheese or ricotta for varied flavor profiles.

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

Pairing side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Greek pasta.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta dressed in olive oil.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy yogurt dip made with cucumber and garlic that complements the pasta beautifully.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant drizzled with olive oil and grilled until tender.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned baby potatoes roasted until crispy; they add a hearty element to the meal.
5. Hummus Platter: Served with pita bread or vegetable sticks for dipping; it’s a healthy choice that pairs well with Mediterranean cuisine.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These flavorful bites are filled with rice, herbs, and spices—perfect finger food alongside your pasta dish.
7. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from finely chopped olives that brings extra flavor when served on toasted bread.
8. Feta-Basil Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with feta cheese, fresh basil, and diced tomatoes; it’s an easy yet elegant starter option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek pasta with feta and olives can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using overcooked pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente to maintain a firm texture. Follow the package instructions for cooking times closely.
• Skipping the pasta water: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can help create a silky sauce when combined with the other ingredients.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly. Under-seasoned dishes can lack flavor, so don’t hesitate to enhance your dish!
• Forgetting the herbs: Fresh or dried herbs are key to elevating flavors. Always add them according to your taste preference, as they contribute significantly to the overall dish.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes will enhance the taste of your dish. Always opt for ripe and fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek pasta in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

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

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• It can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of reserved pasta water in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives.

What types of pasta work best for Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?

You can use any short pasta such as penne or fusilli. Choose one that holds sauce well.

Can I customize my Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also adjust herbs based on what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives vegan?

Yes! Simply replace feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether.

How do I store leftover Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I use different olives in this recipe?

Certainly! If you prefer green olives or another variety, feel free to substitute them according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is not only quick but also packed with vibrant flavors that make it appealing for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to personal tastes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give this delightful Mediterranean dish a try!

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Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table in just 25 minutes. This quick and easy recipe features al dente pasta tossed with sun-ripened cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all enhanced by aromatic herbs and zesty lemon. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this dish is not only flavorful but also customizable. Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the delightful taste of Greece right from your kitchen!

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ small red onion (finely chopped)
• 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
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant.
3. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sliced olives; cook for about 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
4. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet along with lemon juice, zest, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and crumbled feta. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling, Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 320g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 20mg