There’s nothing quite like the lively flavors of the Mediterranean to whisk you away to sun-soaked shores, if only for a moment. Picture this: the vibrant colors of a bustling Greek market, the aroma of fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes dancing through the air. That’s the inspiration behind my Fresh and Zesty Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into culinary magic in just 25 minutes.
As a lover of homemade food, I often find myself searching for recipes that are not only quick to whip up but also bursting with flavor—something that pleases the palate without the fuss. This pasta dish strikes that perfect balance with its tangy feta, briny Kalamata olives, and juicy cherry tomatoes, making it an ideal choice for a hectic weeknight dinner or a leisurely lunch with friends. Join me as I guide you through this easy-to-follow recipe that evokes cherished Mediterranean dining experiences right in your kitchen!
Why is Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives a Must-Try?
Quick Cooking Time: Whip up this delightful dish in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy feta, briny olives, and sweet tomatoes creates a mouthwatering medley that transports you straight to the Mediterranean.
Easy to Customize: With options for gluten-free pasta or added protein, everyone at the table can enjoy it!
Visually Appealing: A colorful presentation of vibrant ingredients serves as eye candy that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal with family, this dish delights and satisfies.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Consider making it ahead for quick lunches or to impress guests at a gathering. Check out more tips on how to make the most of your meal prep with this helpful guide.
Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Spaghetti – The base of the dish, providing structure; can substitute with whole grain or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
For the Sauce
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics; choose a fruity, high-quality oil for the best flavor.
• Garlic – Infuses oil with a warm aroma; sauté briefly to avoid bitterness.
• Red Onion – Provides subtle sweetness when cooked, balancing the saltiness of olives and feta.
• Red Bell Pepper – Offers a crunchy sweetness and vibrant color; can substitute with yellow or orange bell pepper.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with juices, they create a light sauce; regular tomatoes can be used but may require more cooking time.
• Kalamata Olives – Provide a bold briny flavor; substitute with green or black olives if desired.
• Dried Oregano – Adds earthy herbaceous notes, essential for the dish’s Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Introduces gentle heat; adjust based on personal preference.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
For the Finish
• Feta Cheese – Melts slightly into the warm pasta, contributing creaminess and tang; can use goat cheese for variation.
• Fresh Basil and Parsley – Essential for brightness and freshness, elevating the dish’s overall flavor.
• Lemon Juice – Provides refreshing acidity, balancing richness; always use fresh juice for the best taste.
How to Make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives
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Boil the Water: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour in the extra virgin olive oil and heat over medium. Once warm, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Toss in the sliced red onion and red bell pepper, cooking until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir frequently for even cooking.
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Add the Tomatoes and Olives: Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes burst and release their juices.
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Season the Mixture: Taste and add salt and black pepper to your liking, keeping in mind the saltiness from the olives and feta cheese.
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Combine the Pasta: Carefully add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the vegetables. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
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Incorporate the Feta and Herbs: Off the heat, fold in the crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil, and parsley. This prevents the feta from melting completely while still enhancing the flavors.
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Finish with Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and give it a good mix to blend all the flavors together effortlessly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the dish warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired, and relish the vibrant Mediterranean vibes!
Optional: Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the base by cooking the spaghetti and sautéing the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the feta, herbs, and lemon juice separately and store them in another container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pasta and vegetable mixture in a skillet, then stir in the prepared feta and herbs to complete the dish. This method ensures your meal remains just as delicious and vibrant as if made fresh, allowing you to enjoy a hearty Mediterranean feast with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?
Imagine a meal that transports you to a sun-drenched Greek terrace, where each bite sparks joy and delight.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight pairs perfectly, soaking up any leftover sauce and enhancing the Mediterranean experience.
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Greek Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of feta with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy olives. Perfectly vibrant and healthy!
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil and herbs, these tender veggies complement the flavors of the pasta, adding a robust, earthy profile.
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Tzatziki Sauce with Pita Chips: The cool, creamy yogurt dip offers a refreshing contrast, making every bite of pasta feel even more indulgent.
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Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: For added protein, this zesty chicken dish maintains the Greek theme while enhancing your meal’s heartiness.
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Vibrant Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine, like an Assyrtiko, complements the dish’s tangy feta and bright lemon notes, elevating your dining experience.
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Limoncello Sorbet: Conclude your meal with this refreshing dessert, providing a zesty and light finish that echoes the citrus notes in the pasta.
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Stuffed Grape Leaves: Traditional dolmas filled with rice and herbs bring a delightful, tangy flavor that pairs seamlessly with the pasta’s Mediterranean essence.
Tips for the Best Greek Pasta
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Use Quality Olive Oil: Choosing a fruity, extra virgin olive oil can enhance the richness of your Greek Pasta, adding depth to its flavor profile.
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Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant and golden; burnt garlic can bring bitterness to your dish.
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Taste as You Go: Since Kalamata olives and feta are naturally salty, frequently taste the mixture before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
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Retain Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce’s consistency; it helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta for a more flavorful bite.
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Add Fresh Herbs Last: Fold in fresh basil and parsley after removing the skillet from heat to preserve their vibrant color and fresh flavor in the Greek Pasta.
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Experiment with Proteins: For added nutrition, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas, making your meal hearty while staying true to Mediterranean flavors.
Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and explore these tantalizing variations!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta like rice noodles or chickpea pasta for a lighter option.
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Extra Protein: Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. The additions complement the feta and olives beautifully.
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Veggie Boost: Add leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for a pop of color and added nutrition.
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Spice It Up: Include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to ignite a spicy kick that contrasts the creamy feta.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to add a delightful crunch and enrich the texture of the dish.
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Herbal Twist: Experiment with fresh dill or mint instead of basil for a fragrant twist that’s reminiscent of a Greek salad.
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Olive Variety: Swap Kalamata olives for green or black varieties to mix flavors; they each offer a unique taste experience.
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Make It Vegan: Replace feta cheese with nutritional yeast or a tofu-based feta for a creamy, dairy-free indulgence.
How to Store and Freeze Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives
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Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you plan to leave it out, do so for no longer than 2 hours to maintain its flavor and safety.
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Fridge: Store leftover Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy chilled for a refreshing pasta salad or reheat for a warm meal.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water. Avoid freezing fresh herbs and lemon juice; add them upon reheating for fresh flavor.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?
You can use spaghetti as the base for this dish, but I often recommend trying whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a nutritious twist. Both options complement the other flavors beautifully while accommodating various dietary needs.
How should I store leftover Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can enjoy this pasta cold the next day, transforming it into a vibrant pasta salad, or simply reheat it in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water for a warm meal.
Can I freeze Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?
Absolutely! To freeze, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. I recommend omitting fresh herbs and lemon juice before freezing; add them back right before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of reserved pasta water as needed.
What should I do if my garlic burns while sautéing?
If your garlic burns, I empathize—it’s an easy mistake! You’ll want to start over as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to your dish. Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing, and once it turns fragrant and slightly golden (about 1-2 minutes), add the next ingredients quickly to avoid this mishap.
Are there any dietary considerations for Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives?
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and by using gluten-free pasta, you can also make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Be mindful if you’re serving guests with nut allergies; always ensure that the ingredients you choose, like certain brands of olives and feta, are nut-free.
What other ingredients can I add to this pasta if I want to customize it?
Great question! You can easily customize your Greek Pasta to cater to different tastes or dietary needs. For added protein, consider grilling chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Experimenting with different bell pepper colors or including artichoke hearts can enhance flavor complexity. Plus, switching up the herbs gives each dish a fresh twist!
Zesty Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives for a Quick Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add sliced red onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes burst.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste, being mindful of the feta's saltiness.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with the vegetables. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired sauce consistency.
- Off the heat, fold in crumbled feta, fresh basil, and parsley.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and mix to combine all flavors.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.