Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort. This recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients, allowing the extra virgin olive oil to shine through. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this pasta dish is sure to impress. With its fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 19 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Fresh parsley, garlic, and juicy grape tomatoes create a deliciously aromatic experience.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it pairs well with grilled meats and salads.
- Healthy Option: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To make Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cast iron skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta evenly and thoroughly.
- Cast iron skillet: Ideal for distributing heat evenly while cooking the olive oil sauce.
- Colander: Ensures quick and efficient draining of pasta without losing any strands.
Ingredients
Simple, tasty olive oil pasta loaded with Mediterranean flavors.
For the Pasta
- 1 lb thin (spaghetti)
For the Sauce
- 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
For the Garnish
- 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)
How to Make Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Follow package instructions to cook thin spaghetti pasta to al dente. It typically takes around 6 minutes in plenty of boiling water with salt and olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- When the pasta is almost cooked, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Lower the heat and add crushed garlic along with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 10 seconds while stirring regularly.
- Stir in chopped parsley, halved tomatoes, and chopped scallions. Cook over low heat until warmed through for about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Combine Pasta with Sauce
- Once the pasta is ready, remove it from heat and drain the cooking water using a colander.
- Return the drained pasta to its cooking pot and pour in the warmed olive oil sauce.
- Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 4: Add Final Ingredients
- Sprinkle black pepper over the pasta and toss again to distribute.
- Add marinated artichoke hearts, olives, crumbled feta cheese, torn basil leaves, lemon zest, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Toss one last time before serving immediately in pasta bowls topped with additional basil leaves and feta if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
Serving Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta can be a delightful experience. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.
Fresh Herbs and Greens
- Basil and Feta: Top each serving with fresh basil leaves and crumbled feta for added flavor and texture.
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can provide a peppery contrast to the pasta.
Grilled Proteins
- Grilled Chicken: Serve sliced grilled chicken on top or beside the pasta for a heartier meal.
- Shrimp Skewers: Grilled shrimp skewers marinated in lemon juice offer a seafood twist that complements the dish.
Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread as a side for dipping into the olive oil sauce.
- Ciabatta: A slice of ciabatta bread pairs perfectly, providing a nice crunch and perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Wine Pairings
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
- Rosé: A light rosé wine is also an excellent choice, adding to the fresh, summery vibe of the meal.
How to Perfect Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
To make your Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.
- Flavor Boost: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor that elevates your dish.
- Season Your Pasta Water: Adding salt to your boiling water ensures that the pasta is seasoned well from the start.
- Don’t Overcook: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Add Ingredients Gradually: Introduce each ingredient slowly into the skillet so they maintain their individual flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after preparation to experience its best taste and texture.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference for a personalized kick.
Best Side Dishes for Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
Pairing side dishes with your Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a refreshing complement.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrition, making them ideal companions.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: This protein-rich salad balances flavors well while adding crunch.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites filled with rice and herbs bring an authentic Mediterranean touch.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Serve with pita chips or fresh veggies for a creamy side that pairs nicely.
- Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters bring texture and flavor contrast while maintaining the Mediterranean theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is straightforward, but a few common mistakes can take away from its delightful flavors.
Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: The taste of your dish relies heavily on the quality of olive oil. Always choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the Mediterranean flavors.
Overcooking the Pasta: Overcooked pasta can ruin the texture. Cook it just until al dente, which should be firm yet tender for the best results.
Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and parsley are essential for flavor. Don’t substitute dried herbs; use fresh whenever possible for a vibrant taste.
Not Adding Enough Salt: Salt is crucial in enhancing all flavors in your dish. Be generous with salt in both the pasta water and when cooking the sauce.
Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Adding cold ingredients to hot pasta can lower the temperature of your dish. Ensure your sauce ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
Forgetting to Toss Thoroughly: Properly tossing the pasta with the sauce ensures even distribution of flavors. Don’t rush this step; it’s key for a well-combined dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- This pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent sticking, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta that might help you.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While spaghetti works well, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine.
How can I make this Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese and ensure any marinated products used do not contain animal products.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs are recommended, you can use dried herbs as substitutes. Just adjust quantities since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would complement this dish beautifully. Just add them after tossing with the sauce.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes as an optional ingredient. You can adjust this according to your spice tolerance or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Enjoy exploring different variations of this delightful dish!
Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta
Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta is a bright, flavorful dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean with minimal effort. This recipe highlights the richness of extra virgin olive oil, complemented by fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this pasta is sure to satisfy.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 lb thin spaghetti
- 1/2 cup Early Harvest Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 12 oz grape tomatoes (halved)
- 3 scallions (chopped)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 6 oz marinated artichoke hearts (drained)
- 1/4 cup pitted olives (halved)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crushed garlic and salt; cook for about 10 seconds.
- Stir in parsley, grape tomatoes, and scallions; warm through for about 30 seconds.
- Drain pasta and return to pot; pour in the olive oil sauce and toss well.
- Add black pepper, artichokes, olives, feta, basil, lemon zest, and optional red pepper flakes; toss again and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
