Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes) is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine into a quick meal. With the enticing combination of cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are preparing a family dinner or looking for a simple weeknight meal, Greek pasta with feta will surely impress your taste buds while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and olives creates a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side dish at gatherings and parties.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and olives, this recipe offers a nutritious option without compromising on taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed to make this delicious Greek pasta with feta. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

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, ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Colander: Useful for draining the pasta quickly while retaining its shape.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and onions to bring out their flavors before combining them with the pasta.

Ingredients

To make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes), 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 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. In a large pot, bring 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add extra virgin olive oil.
2. Sauté minced garlic and chopped red onion until translucent.
3. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives; cook for about 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper into the skillet.
2. Toss in the drained pasta along with crumbled feta cheese.
3. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired sauce consistency is reached.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Greek pasta with feta and olives hot.
2. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives in just 25 minutes!

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

Serving Greek pasta with feta and olives is a delightful experience that celebrates Mediterranean flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any occasion.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Adding fresh basil leaves not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to the dish.

Lemon Wedges

• Serve alongside lemon wedges for an extra zing. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors wonderfully.

Crusty Bread

• Pair this pasta with a slice of crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Side Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar complements the rich flavors of the pasta without overpowering it.

Grilled Chicken or Turkey

• For those who want extra protein, grilled chicken or turkey slices make an excellent addition to the meal.

Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables can add depth and color to your plate, enhancing both nutrition and taste.

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

To ensure you achieve the best results when making Greek pasta with feta and olives, follow these handy tips.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes, high-quality feta cheese, and good olive oil make a significant difference in flavor.

• Cook pasta al dente: Aim for firm pasta that retains its shape during mixing. This texture holds up well against sauce ingredients.

• Reserve pasta water: Always set aside some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce consistency if it’s too thick.

• Don’t skip seasoning: Make sure to taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for balanced flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with Greek pasta enhances your meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Greek Salad: A classic mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives dressed in olive oil brings freshness to your plate.

2. Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and garlic adds creaminess that complements the pasta perfectly.

3. Roasted Asparagus: Simply seasoned roasted asparagus provides a crunchy contrast that balances out the softness of the pasta.

4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These little bites filled with rice and herbs offer a delightful Mediterranean touch to your meal.

5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with diced veggies and a tangy dressing adds nutrition alongside your main dish.

6. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant slices bring rich flavors that pair well without overshadowing the pasta’s taste.

7. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from finely chopped olives can be served as an appetizer to kick off your Mediterranean-themed dinner.

8. Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa cooked with herbs is an excellent gluten-free alternative that complements this dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives, steer clear of these common mistakes.

• Using the wrong pasta type: Different pasta shapes can affect the dish’s texture. Stick to penne or fusilli for optimal sauce adherence.
• Neglecting pasta water: This is a key ingredient for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining your pasta.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Sauté garlic and onions just until fragrant to retain their flavor. Overcooked veggies can become mushy and lose their appeal.
• Skipping the lemon juice: This ingredient adds brightness to your dish. Don’t skip it; use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors, ensuring a well-seasoned dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning it out for easy reheating later.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)?

Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes) is a quick dish featuring pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, and feta cheese, making it flavorful yet simple.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or switch out feta for a dairy-free option using plant-based cheese.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit any meat options and focus on vegetables and feta cheese for a delicious vegetarian meal.

What other ingredients pair well with this pasta?

Consider adding artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is not just quick but also incredibly versatile. With its fresh flavors, this recipe can be customized endlessly. Give it a try today!