Greek Spaghetti is a delightful and flavorful pasta dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine. With a homemade dressing, fresh veggies, and creamy feta cheese, this recipe offers a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, Greek Spaghetti can be enjoyed as a side dish or a satisfying main course. Its simplicity in preparation ensures you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying good food with good company.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, olives, and feta cheese creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it warm as a main course or chilled as a refreshing pasta salad for a picnic.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and enticing flavors, Greek Spaghetti is sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and enhances your experience. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare Greek Spaghetti efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Skillet for sautéing vegetables
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife for chopping ingredients
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Allows you to cook spaghetti evenly while providing ample space for boiling.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables to achieve that wonderful flavor without overcrowding.
- Measuring spoons/cups: Ensures accurate measurements for the dressing and spices, crucial for flavor balance.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
For the Vegetables
- 1 small red onion (finely diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
For the Dressing
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Garnishing
- ⅓ cup pitted kalamata olives (sliced)
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
- Optional: fresh chopped basil or parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Greek Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining the rest.
- Toss the drained spaghetti with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the finely diced onions and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach
- Incorporate halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet along with remaining olive oil.
- Sauté for several minutes until tomatoes soften slightly.
- Add fresh baby spinach to the pan, cooking until wilted.
Step 4: Mix in Seasonings
- Stir in sliced kalamata olives, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for another minute to blend flavors well.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
- Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked spaghetti to the vegetable mixture.
- Toss well to ensure all ingredients are combined evenly.
Step 6: Finish with Feta and Basil
- Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese and thinly sliced basil leaves.
- Toss once more to combine all ingredients smoothly.
Step 7: Serve
- Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, enjoy your delicious Greek Spaghetti!
How to Serve Greek Spaghetti
Greek Spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. It pairs well with various sides and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
As a Main Course
- Serve it warm with a sprinkle of extra feta cheese on top for added creaminess.
- Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost that complements the Greek flavors.
As a Side Dish
- Serve alongside grilled meats like lamb or pork, which harmonize beautifully with the pasta.
- Accompany with a fresh Greek salad to add crispness and extra veggies to your meal.
Cold Pasta Salad
- Chill the Greek Spaghetti and serve it as a refreshing pasta salad at picnics or barbecues.
- Add extra olives and fresh herbs to enhance the flavor when serving cold.
Garnished Variations
- Top with additional fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
- Drizzle some balsamic glaze over the dish just before serving for an extra zing.
How to Perfect Greek Spaghetti
To make your Greek Spaghetti truly exceptional, keep these tips in mind. They will help you elevate the flavors and presentation of this delightful dish.
- Choose high-quality olive oil – Using good olive oil enhances the overall taste of the dressing and adds richness.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice – Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors, making each bite refreshing.
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh basil offers a vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs, enhancing the dish’s freshness.
- Let it sit before serving – Allowing the spaghetti to rest for a few minutes helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Adjust seasoning to taste – Always taste before serving; you may want more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Experiment with veggies – Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Greek Spaghetti
Pairing Greek Spaghetti with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Greek Salad – A classic combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olives dressed in olive oil and lemon juice.
- Tzatziki Sauce – This creamy yogurt-based sauce is perfect for dipping pita bread or drizzling over meats.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant complement the pasta beautifully.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers add protein and pair well with Mediterranean flavors.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas) – These vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs provide an authentic touch to your meal.
- Pita Bread – Warm pita bread is great for scooping up any extras left on your plate!
- Lentil Soup – A hearty lentil soup can serve as a warming starter before diving into your main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Greek Spaghetti can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the pasta water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It helps to bind the sauce and enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing too long can lead to mushy veggies. Cook them just until they are tender, so they maintain their texture and nutrients.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and other spices to suit your personal preference for a more flavorful meal.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate the dish. Opt for fresh spinach and basil instead of dried when possible for vibrant flavors.
- Forgetting to toss well: Ensure you toss everything together thoroughly. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures each bite is equally delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the Greek Spaghetti to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Greek Spaghetti
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Ensure that it is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Greek Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Greek Spaghetti.
What makes Greek Spaghetti unique?
Greek Spaghetti stands out due to its combination of Mediterranean flavors from feta cheese, kalamata olives, and fresh vegetables, creating a refreshing meal option.
Can I customize my Greek Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein or swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Greek Spaghetti is perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions, and enjoy it throughout the week.
How do I serve Greek Spaghetti?
You can serve this dish as a main course or as a side dish at gatherings. It pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.
Final Thoughts
Greek Spaghetti is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Whether served warm or cold, this dish brings comfort and joy with every bite. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!
Greek Spaghetti
Greek Spaghetti is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine into a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta is tossed with fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing. It can be served warm as a hearty main course or chilled as a refreshing side dish, making it incredibly versatile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small red onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- ⅓ cup kalamata olives
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onions for about 3 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and remaining olive oil. Sauté until tomatoes soften slightly. Stir in baby spinach until wilted.
- Mix in olives, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Combine the vegetable mixture with cooked spaghetti and toss well.
- Fold in feta cheese and fresh basil before serving warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
