Mediterranean pasta brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients like tomatoes, artichokes, and olives. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or sharing with friends and family.
Why We Love This Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
There’s something inherently appealing about Mediterranean Pasta that makes it irresistible. It combines the simplicity of pasta with the abundance of Mediterranean vegetables and healthy fats, giving you a satisfying and nutritious dish that you can feel good about eating. This recipe allows you to indulge in rich flavors while also supporting your health goals.
The beauty of Mediterranean Pasta is its versatility. You can customize it based on the vegetables you have on hand or your personal preferences. It’s quick to prepare but offers complexity in flavor, making it an excellent choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend meals. Furthermore, by using whole wheat noodles, you’re adding an extra layer of nutrition, making this dish even more fantastic for your dining experience.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Pasta
To make this delectable Mediterranean Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt plus 1 teaspoon, divided
- 6 ounces whole wheat angel hair pasta (or similar whole wheat noodles)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 cups grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
- 1 can quartered artichoke hearts (14 ounces)
- 1 can whole pitted black olives (6 ounces)
- 3 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
How to Make Mediterranean Pasta
Creating this Mediterranean delight is easier than you might think. Follow these straightforward steps to bring this dish to life in your kitchen:
Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the water. Cook the whole wheat angel hair pasta until it reaches an al dente texture. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Prepare Your Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, take this time to prep your vegetables. Mince the garlic finely, then halve the grape or cherry tomatoes to release their juices. Drain the canned artichokes and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Slice the black olives, ensuring they’re ready to enhance the mix.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the good-quality olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and halved tomatoes. Sprinkle in the remaining teaspoon of salt, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté everything together for 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften.
Combine Pasta and Vegetables: After you’ve sautéed the vegetables, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the flavorful oil and juices. Now, it’s time to introduce the chopped artichokes and sliced olives. Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over everything and mix well. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through. If your pasta seems dry, a bit of the reserved pasta water can help loosen it.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top, giving everything a final toss. Your Mediterranean Pasta is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Mediterranean Pasta
Serving Mediterranean Pasta is about presenting a meal that looks as good as it tastes. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- Plate It Up: Serve the pasta in generous bowls, allowing the colorful ingredients to shine. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Fresh Herbs: Consider topping each serving with additional fresh parsley or other herbs like basil for a burst of color.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving can add another layer of richness.
- Accompaniments: Pair the dish with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal.
- Bread on the Side: Serve with warm crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean dining experience. You can use it to soak up any remaining sauce on your plate.
Expert Tips for Making Mediterranean Pasta
To achieve the best results from your Mediterranean Pasta, consider these expert tips:
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Opt for high-quality olive oil and fresh ingredients when possible. It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures that it retains a nice texture that holds up well in the dish.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite Mediterranean vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to tailor the recipe to your taste.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add a bit more.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prep. You can easily reheat it, making it a great option for busy days.
How to Store Mediterranean Pasta
Storing your leftover Mediterranean Pasta is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy it later.
- Cool It Down: Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation inside the container.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the pasta in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents it from drying out.
- Refrigerate: Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or a bit of olive oil as needed to revive its texture.
- Freezing: If you want to store it longer, consider freezing portions. Be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Variation of Mediterranean Pasta
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Mediterranean Pasta is its versatility. Here are a few variations to excite your palate:
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein punch. This will make the dish more filling and satisfying.
- Different Noodles: Experiment with different pasta shapes or types, such as whole wheat fusilli or gluten-free penne, to suit your dietary preferences.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting some of the vegetables before adding them to the pasta can deepen their flavors. Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a delicious twist.
- Herb Swap: Change up the herbs based on what you have on hand. Try fresh oregano, dill, or thyme to give the dish a distinct flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re following a dairy-free diet, skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
FAQ about Mediterranean Pasta
What makes Mediterranean Pasta different from other pasta dishes?
Mediterranean Pasta stands out due to its fresh, wholesome ingredients typical of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of ripe tomatoes, savory olives, and flavorful artichokes creates a unique and vibrant meal that’s packed with nutrients.
Can I make Mediterranean Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly prepare Mediterranean Pasta ahead of time. Just make sure to follow the storage tips mentioned earlier, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish on busy days.
What can I serve with Mediterranean Pasta?
Pair it with a light salad, some fresh crusty bread, or even a side of grilled vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that embodies the essence of Mediterranean dining.
Is Mediterranean Pasta healthy?
Absolutely! Using whole wheat pasta adds fiber, while the vegetables deliver essential vitamins and minerals. The healthy fats from olive oil contribute to heart health, making this a nutritious choice.
Can I customize the ingredients?
Definitely! The beauty of Mediterranean Pasta lies in its flexibility. Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables or protein to create a dish that caters to your taste preferences.
Mediterranean Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta Preparation
- 6 ounces whole wheat angel hair pasta or similar whole wheat noodles
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt plus 1 teaspoon, divided
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 can quartered artichoke hearts 14 ounces, drained and chopped
- 1 can whole pitted black olives 6 ounces, sliced
Seasoning and Finishing Touches
- 3 tablespoons good-quality olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to taste
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley chopped
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, then add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Cook the whole wheat angel hair pasta until al dente, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Preparing Vegetables
- While the pasta cooks, mince the garlic, halve the tomatoes, chop artichokes into bite-sized pieces, and slice the black olives.
Sautéing Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and halved tomatoes, along with the remaining teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and tomatoes soften.
Combining Ingredients
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the oil and juices. Introduce chopped artichokes and sliced olives, then drizzle with lemon juice. Mix well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
Finishing Touches
- Remove from heat, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan and parsley. Toss gently and serve immediately.