Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table, you’ve found it! This Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is a favorite in my home because it’s not only easy to make but also packed with fresh ingredients that everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish shines in its simplicity and taste.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can whip it up in just about 20 minutes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any veggies you have on hand. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, dinner is served in no time!
• Packed with Flavor: Fresh herbs and quality olive oil create a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this colorful pasta dish!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match based on what you have in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll love how fresh and vibrant everything looks when laid out!

• 1 lb thin spaghetti
• 1/2 cup Early Harvest Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
• Salt
• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 12 oz grape tomatoes (halved)
• 3 scallions (green onions, top trimmed, both whites and greens chopped)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 6 oz marinated artichoke hearts (drained)
• 1/4 cup pitted olives (halved)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (more if you like)
• 10-15 fresh basil leaves (torn)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is its flexibility. You can easily switch things up based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken or shrimp for an extra boost of protein.
• Go Vegan: Omit the feta cheese and add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Change the Noodles: Use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
• Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like some heat!

How to Make Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by following the package instructions to cook your thin spaghetti until al dente. This typically takes about six minutes in plenty of boiling water with salt and olive oil. Cooking it just right ensures the pasta has the perfect bite!

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Once warm, lower the heat slightly and add in your crushed garlic along with a pinch of salt. Sautéing the garlic enhances its flavor without burning it—just about ten seconds should do! Then stir in chopped parsley, halved tomatoes, and scallions. Cooking these ingredients briefly allows their natural flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Everything

When your pasta is ready, remove it from heat, drain off excess water, and return it to its pot. Pour that fragrant olive oil sauce over the pasta and toss gently but thoroughly—this helps each strand get coated with those lovely flavors! Sprinkle black pepper over everything for that finishing touch.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

Now it’s time to elevate your dish! Gently fold in the remaining ingredients: marinated artichokes, olives, crumbled feta cheese, torn basil leaves, and lemon zest. Give it one last toss before serving immediately into warm bowls. If you want to impress your guests even more, top each bowl with additional basil leaves and feta!

Enjoy every delightful bite of this Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta!

Pro Tips for Making Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta

Making pasta is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta to a whole new level!

• Use high-quality olive oil: The flavor of olive oil makes a huge difference. Opt for an Early Harvest Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil for its rich taste and health benefits.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking spaghetti to al dente ensures it maintains a bit of bite, which enhances the overall texture of the dish and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Fresh herbs are key: Incorporating fresh parsley and basil not only adds vibrant color but also infuses your pasta with fresh, aromatic flavors that dried herbs just can’t replicate.
• Customize with seasonal vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and variety. They can bring extra color and depth to your dish.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after tossing it with the sauce helps the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delicious!

How to Serve Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta

Presentation is everything! Here are some ideas on how to serve this vibrant dish to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Extra crumbled feta: A sprinkle of additional feta cheese on top enhances creaminess and adds a salty contrast that complements the vegetables.
• Fresh basil leaves: Torn basil leaves not only look stunning but also provide a fragrant touch that elevates the dish’s aroma and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of acidity, brightening up every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic accompaniment is perfect for soaking up any leftover olive oil sauce. You can easily make it by spreading minced garlic mixed with olive oil on slices of bread, then baking until golden.
• Mediterranean Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice provides crunch and complements the pasta beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs and roasted until tender, vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers offer earthy flavors that enhance your meal’s overall profile.
• Chickpea Salad: A simple salad made with chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs tossed in olive oil adds protein while keeping things light and refreshing alongside your pasta.

With these serving suggestions, your Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta will not only taste incredible but will look fantastic on any table! Enjoy creating memorable meals filled with warmth and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week. Whether you’re planning ahead for a busy week or just want to have some extra servings on hand, this recipe holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, simply reheat in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep it moist.
• For frozen pasta, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over low heat, adding a little olive oil as needed.

FAQs

If you’re curious about our Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already free from animal-derived ingredients. Just skip the feta cheese or opt for a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegan dish.

How can I customize my Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also include different types of olives or substitute herbs based on your preference.

What should I serve with Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even grilled vegetables for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?

Yes! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative that adds fiber and nutrients while still keeping the delicious flavors of the dish intact.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta becomes one of your go-to recipes! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with fresh flavors that make your taste buds dance. Enjoy making it and savor every bite – you deserve it! If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!