Description
Greek Spaghetti is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the hearty essence of Mediterranean cuisine with the comfort of pasta. This recipe brings together al dente spaghetti, rich olive oil, tangy feta cheese, and a medley of fresh vegetables, including cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and kalamata olives.
Ingredients
1 lb spaghetti
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 small red onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of half a lemon
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh baby spinach
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
Instructions
Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and drain the remaining water. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pasta, toss, and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the diced onions until soft.
Add garlic to the pan and sauté for 1 minute.
Add cherry tomatoes to the pan with the remaining olive oil and sauté for several minutes, until the tomatoes are softened.
Add the baby spinach to the pan and cook until wilted.
Add the kalamata olives, lemon juice, vinegar, and seasonings to the pan and cook for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss to coat in the vegetable mixture.
Add the feta and fresh sliced basil and toss one more time to combine.
Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley and serve, enjoy!
Notes
- Ingredient Flexibility: This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to substitute the vegetables with whatever you have on hand or prefer. Similarly, the pasta can be swapped for gluten-free or whole wheat varieties to suit dietary needs.
- Protein Addition: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the mix. This not only increases the protein content but also adds another layer of flavor.
- Make Ahead: Greek Spaghetti is a great make-ahead dish. It can be prepared a day in advance, with flavors melding together overnight in the refrigerator, enhancing its taste.
- Serving Temperature: While traditionally served warm, this dish is also delicious when served at room temperature, making it a versatile option for picnics or potlucks.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. The dish is easily reheatable, with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh its flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American