Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives Recipe Guide

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I want to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives. This dish holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of lazy summer evenings spent with loved ones, enjoying good food and even better company. The combination of tangy feta, briny olives, and flavorful pasta creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

I make this pasta when I want a quick and satisfying meal that is bursting with Mediterranean flavors. My family goes crazy for this dish because it’s a perfect harmony of salty feta, rich olives, and al dente pasta. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily customize it based on what you have in your pantry!

Now, let’s gather our ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:

– 350g pasta of your choice
– 200g feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– Handful of fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

I sometimes use penne pasta instead of spaghetti when I’m in the mood for a heartier dish. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta to find your favorite combination!

Directions

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is al dente. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Next, add the olives to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until they are warmed through. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the olives and garlic. Toss everything together gently.

Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta over the pasta and olives. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finish off the dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley. This is where I usually sneak a taste to adjust the seasoning!

Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird at this stage—it always does! The magic truly happens when you take that first bite and experience the explosion of flavors in your mouth.

Notes

Through trial and error, I’ve found that using high-quality feta makes a world of difference in this dish. It’s worth splurging on a good block of feta for that creamy, tangy flavor that elevates the entire pasta.

Variations

One experiment I tried that didn’t work out so well was substituting green olives for Kalamata olives. The brininess of Kalamata olives really brings out the Mediterranean essence of this dish, so I recommend sticking with them for the best results.

Equipment

If you don’t have a skillet, you can easily make this dish in a large saucepan. The key is to ensure that the flavors of the olives and garlic infuse the pasta beautifully.

Storage Information

Though honestly, in my house, this pasta never lasts more than a day! The flavors are best enjoyed fresh, but if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this pasta with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the richness of the feta and olives beautifully. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!

Pro Tips

One lesson I learned form mistakes is not to skimp on the olive oil in this recipe. The olive oil not only adds richness but also helps bring all the flavors together harmoniously. So, be generous with it!

FAQ

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh parsley adds a lovely brightness to the dish, dried parsley works just fine if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.

This Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives recipe is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds!