Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta is the ultimate Mediterranean delight that transports your taste buds straight to sun-soaked shores. This Recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with the briny delight of olives and the creamy goodness of feta, creating an irresistible dish that sings with vibrant flavors. With its step-by-step approach, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to whip up a meal that’s effortless yet packed with taste. Everyone will savor the blend of freshness and comfort in every bite, making it a dish worth making time and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a delightful family dinner, Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta delivers on all fronts. With its easy prep and minimal ingredients, this dish is a lifesaver for busy weekdays. Plus, the bright flavors appeal to even the pickiest of eaters, making it family-friendly and suitable for all ages. This is not just any meal; it’s a wholesome dish that can be served quickly or made traditional with a twist, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Ingredients for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
- Pasta: Choose your favorite shape—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work great, offering a delightful bite.
- Olives: Briny Kalamata or green olives add depth and a burst of flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Creamy, tangy feta crumbles bring balance and richness to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides a smooth dressing touch.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds an aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish with a zesty kick.
- Oregano: The herb’s earthy notes enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt and a sprinkle of pepper elevate the entire dish, making each bite more delicious.
Step-by-Step Directions for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually means a few minutes shorter than the suggested cooking time. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the slightly cooled pasta with pitted and sliced olives and crumbled feta cheese. The warm pasta will gently melt the feta, enhancing its flavor in the mix.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Mix It All Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine everything thoroughly. Ensure that the pasta is well-coated in the zesty dressing.
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Serving: This dish can be served at room temperature or chilled. Both ways are delightful and cater to your preference!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta, consider these chef’s secrets: try adding some sun-dried tomatoes for an additional burst of flavor and color. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add freshness. For extra crunch, toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts. If you’re looking for a heartier version, grilled chicken or chickpeas make excellent protein additions. Always remember to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking—every ingredient plays a key role in achieving perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Presenting your Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta beautifully will make it even more appealing. Use a large, shallow bowl and drizzle extra olive oil on top for a glossy finish. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh arugula salad or some grilled vegetables, which provide a vibrant contrast. For beverages, consider a light, refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to complement the zesty flavors.
Nutritional Information
This flavorful dish not only delights the senses but also nourishes the body. While the exact caloric content can vary based on portion size, a typical serving of Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta can have approximately 400-500 calories. It is rich in healthy fats from olive oil and feta while providing carbohydrates from pasta, making it both satisfying and energy-boosting. Always feel free to adjust portion sizes based on your dietary goals!
Storing Tips & Variations for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
Leftovers of Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve again, allow it to come to room temperature or reheat quickly in the microwave. Consider creating variations by substituting regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to cater to different dietary needs. Seasonal veggies, like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, can also be mixed in for added nutrition.
Conclusion for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
There’s no reason not to indulge in the scrumptiousness of Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta today! Combining simplicity, flavor, and nutrition, this dish is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Recipe experiments are all about making each bite memorable and enjoyable. Grab your ingredients and start tossing your way to a delicious meal tonight!
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape, whether it’s penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options.
2. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
3. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp can make this dish heartier and more satisfying.
4. Is it necessary to chill the pasta before mixing?
Chilling is not necessary; however, slightly cooling it helps in achieving the perfect blend of flavors without melting the feta too much.
5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this pasta?
Complement the meal with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even some warm whole-grain bread for added carbs.
Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A Mediterranean delight of perfectly cooked pasta combined with briny olives and creamy feta, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- Pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- Kalamata or green olives
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh lemon juice
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, then drain and cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with sliced olives and crumbled feta.
- In a separate bowl, whisk olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, or nuts. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
