If you’re on the hunt for a dish that truly embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, look no further than this refreshing Mediterranean Pasta. Bursting with flavor and colorful ingredients, this pasta dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for any time of the day—be it lunch, dinner, or as part of your meal prep—this recipe reassures you that healthy eating can be deliciously satisfying.

What sets this Mediterranean Pasta apart from others is its vibrant blend of textures and flavors. Imagine tender pasta mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and the briny notes of Kalamata olives, all enveloped in a zesty dressing. Plus, the rich creaminess of crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs adds an aromatic touch that will elevate your dining experience.

Whether you need a quick option for a weekday meal or a Crowd-pleasing side for gatherings, this Mediterranean Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s easy to prepare, plant-based, and completely customizable, making it a staple in any home. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious and easy recipe that will bring a taste of the sun-soaked Mediterranean to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Pasta

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and tangy feta adds layers of flavor.
Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day, making it a great choice for lunches.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.
Healthy and Satisfying: This pasta is loaded with fresh ingredients and healthy fats.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking your Mediterranean Pasta, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Begin by clearing your work surface and ensuring all your ingredients are fresh and ready to go. Having everything at hand will streamline the cooking process.

You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a colander for draining, and a cutting board along with sharp knives to prepare your vegetables. It’s also helpful to have a large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients and a whisk for the vinaigrette dressing. If desired, keep measuring cups and spoons handy to ensure accurate quantities.

Ingredients

1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup diced cucumbers
1/2 cup kalamata olives, halved and pitted
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp torn fresh basil
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. The salt will enhance the flavor of the pasta as it cooks. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package directions until it reaches an al dente texture. Typically, this takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This also helps in preventing the pasta from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta cooks, take this opportunity to prep your vegetables. Start by halving the cherry tomatoes—this will showcase their vibrant juices when mixed into the pasta. Next, dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces for a refreshing crunch. Then, thinly slice the red onion for a sharp flavor contrast, followed by halving the Kalamata olives. Set these prepared vegetables aside as they will be added to the pasta soon.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing will tie all the ingredients together while adding zesty notes. Ensure it’s well blended and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, and the dressing. Toss everything together gently, ensuring all ingredients are well coated. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld beautifully! Be careful not to overmix to keep the texture of the feta intact.

Step 5: Finish with Feta and Herbs

Once the pasta and vegetables are well mixed, add the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and torn basil. Gently fold these in so that the feta remains in nice chunks and provides creamy bites throughout the dish. Fresh herbs will add brightness, making each mouthful refreshing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For optimal flavor, refrigerate your Mediterranean Pasta for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a more delicious dish. When ready to serve, give it a quick stir and enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or baby spinach for more variety.
Spices: For a kick, try adding red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to give your pasta a quick rinse with cold water to prevent stickiness.
Use high-quality olive oil for best results in flavor.
Feel free to adjust the amount of feta according to your taste preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mediterranean Pasta with grilled vegetables on the side.
Pair it with a light salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a complete meal.

Tips

To enhance the flavors, let the pasta sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of vinegar for a brighter taste.
Consider adding roasted red peppers for an extra smoky flavor.
Add a dash of sugar to balance out the acidity in the dressing if desired.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I make Mediterranean Pasta in advance?

Yes! This dish is ideal for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne, rotini, and farfalle all work well, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even canned chickpeas would all be great additions for added protein.

How long does Mediterranean Pasta last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Mediterranean Pasta recipe combines the perfect balance of fresh ingredients, satisfying flavors, and simplicity in preparation. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a star on your dinner table, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion. We encourage you to experiment with different additions and modifications to make it uniquely yours. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any twists you put on the recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!