Greek Pasta with Feta & Olives Recipe
This Greek Pasta with Feta & Olives is a vibrant and delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish combining al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Brightened with lemon juice and herbs, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Pasta and Base
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed for sauce)
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
Seasonings and Cheese
- 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
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped red onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and start to burst, releasing their juices.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes and aromatics. Stir in the sliced Kalamata olives, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. If the mixture appears dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Add the Feta and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese until just combined. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful Greek-inspired pasta dish!
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of the feta and olives.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be substituted or added for different flavor profiles.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of Greek yogurt just before serving.
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Greek pasta, feta cheese pasta, Mediterranean pasta recipe, pasta with olives, quick vegetarian dinner, healthy pasta dish