Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)

Greek pasta with feta and olives (25-minutes) is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, bringing together juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese in just 25 minutes. It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Bold Flavors: With ingredients like feta, olives, and fresh herbs, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape or add more veggies to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh ingredients, this dish offers a nutritious balance of carbs and protein.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this pasta will impress everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
• Colander: Essential for draining cooked pasta without losing any important textures.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing garlic and mixing all ingredients together to develop flavors.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware while effectively combining ingredients without scratching surfaces.

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)

For the Flavor Boosters

• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ½ cup Kalamata olives (sliced)

For Seasoning

• 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 Finish

• 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 directions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives to the skillet.
2. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.

Step 4: Mix Pasta with Sauce

1. Add drained pasta to the skillet; toss well to combine with sauce.
2. If needed, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is achieved.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from heat; fold in crumbled feta cheese gently.
2. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Greek pasta with feta and olives! This meal is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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

Serving Greek pasta with feta and olives is a delightful way to enjoy a Mediterranean meal. This dish can be enjoyed as a light main course or alongside various accompaniments for a more substantial feast.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh basil: Adds a burst of flavor and color.
• Chopped parsley: Provides a fresh touch and enhances presentation.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• Greek salad: Combine tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives for a refreshing side.
• Mixed greens: A light salad dressed with olive oil and lemon complements the pasta well.

Add Protein

• Grilled chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top adds heartiness.
• Chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, add roasted chickpeas for protein and texture.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Pita bread: Soft pita is great for dipping into the flavors of the dish.

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

To make your Greek pasta with feta and olives truly memorable, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold flavors: Use ripe cherry tomatoes for maximum sweetness.
• Fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality feta cheese to enhance the dish’s creaminess.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta has the perfect bite and texture.
• Reserve pasta water: Adding this starchy water helps create a silky sauce.
• Add zest at the end: Incorporate lemon zest just before serving for bright flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving to balance flavors with salt and pepper.

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

Complementing your Greek pasta with feta and olives can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:

1. Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce that pairs well with pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled in olive oil, roasted until tender.
3. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): Flavorful grape leaves filled with rice and herbs add variety.
4. Olive Tapenade: A spread made from olives that enhances Mediterranean flavors.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled in balsamic glaze offer freshness.
6. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad tossed with veggies that adds nuttiness to your meal.
7. Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with assorted vegetables makes for a great dip.
8. Cucumber Feta Salad: Crisp cucumbers mixed with feta cheese provide a cool crunch alongside the warm pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Greek pasta with feta and olives. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using the wrong pasta – Different types of pasta can affect the texture and flavor of your dish. Stick to penne or fusilli for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta – Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Ensure you follow the package instructions for al dente cooking.
• Skipping the pasta water – Pasta water adds creaminess to your sauce. Reserve some before draining to enhance your dish’s flavor.
• Not seasoning properly – Under-seasoned dishes can taste bland. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to fit your taste preferences.
• Ignoring ingredient quality – Using fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and good-quality feta makes a significant difference in taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 3 days.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.

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

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Add a splash of reserved pasta water and warm over low heat while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Greek pasta with feta and olives that might help you further.

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a plant-based alternative if needed. Just remember it will change the overall taste.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make Greek pasta vegan, simply replace feta with a plant-based cheese option and ensure that any broth used is also plant-based.

What can I serve with Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives (25-Minutes)?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or grilled vegetables. It’s versatile enough to complement many sides!

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

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even proteins like grilled chicken or turkey for extra heartiness.

Final Thoughts

Greek pasta with feta and olives is not only quick but also bursting with flavors that satisfy any palate. This recipe is easily customizable; feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins! Enjoy making this delightful meal at home.