Greek Spaghetti

Greek Spaghetti offers a flavorful twist on a classic pasta dish by infusing it with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. This recipe combines the fresh and vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, kalamata olives, and feta cheese, resulting in a light yet satisfying meal. With its aromatic blend of herbs and seasonings, Greek Spaghetti is sure to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece.

Why Make Greek Spaghetti

Greek Spaghetti is a delightful dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to add variety to their pasta repertoire or for anyone craving a taste of the Mediterranean. This recipe is versatile and adaptable, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal in a delicious and satisfying way.

How to Make Greek Spaghetti

1. Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water. Toss the cooked spaghetti with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onions until they are soft. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Cook Tomatoes and Spinach: Incorporate the cherry tomatoes into the skillet with the remaining olive oil and sauté for several minutes until the tomatoes are softened. Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts.
4. Add Olives and Seasonings: Stir in the sliced kalamata olives, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Combine with Spaghetti: Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together to coat the spaghetti in the vegetable mixture.
6. Add Feta and Basil: Add the crumbled feta cheese and fresh sliced basil to the skillet, then toss once more to combine everything evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley. Serve your delicious Greek spaghetti and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Greek Spaghetti can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also great for potlucks, picnics, or as a flavorful option for meal prep lunches.

Storage Information

Store any leftover Greek Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Some Techniques or Tips

• To add extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding them to the skillet.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Variation

For a heartier version of Greek Spaghetti, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for additional protein. You can also swap out the spaghetti for other pasta shapes such as penne or farfalle for a fun twist.

FAQs about Greek Spaghetti

1. Can I use other types of olives instead of kalamata olives? Yes, you can use your preferred variety of olives or a combination of different types for added flavor.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply omit the addition of meat or seafood and focus on the delicious vegetables and cheese for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano? Yes, you can use fresh oregano or other herbs such as thyme or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Recipe Card

Greek Pasta Salad

This Greek Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish featuring rotini noodles tossed with English cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, black olives, green bell pepper, fresh parsley, and crumbled feta cheese, all coated in a tangy dressing made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic, honey, and salt. It's perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal any time of the year.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Main Course, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Greek

Servings 8 servings

Equipment

• Medium-sized Bowl
• Large Bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 16 oz. Rotini noodles
• 1 English cucumber, sliced into half circles
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup pitted black olives, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

 

• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried basil, minced garlic, honey, and salt. Set aside.
• Cook the rotini noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and let them cool.
• In a large bowl, toss together sliced English cucumber, cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, chopped green bell pepper, and chopped fresh parsley.
• Add the cooked and cooled rotini noodles to the bowl.
• Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then toss everything together until evenly coated.
• Add the crumbled feta cheese and toss again gently.
• Serve immediately or chill before serving.
• Enjoy your Greek pasta salad!

Keyword Greek Salad, Mediterranean, Pasta salad