Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta is a vibrant dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This delightful recipe combines the tender, comforting embrace of pasta with the briny richness of olives and the creamy tang of feta cheese. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of taste that dances on your taste buds. Made with simple, fresh ingredients, it’s an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side for your next gathering. You’ll find that this recipe, crafted with love, is perfect for anyone seeking a quick, scrumptious meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to make Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best features of Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta is its easy preparation. The recipe is simple enough for novice cooks while still impressing experienced home chefs. This dish is family-friendly—ideal for picky eaters and filled with flavors that cater to varied tastes. With minimal cooking time, it’s perfect for busy evenings. Featuring a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that can be adjusted according to your preferences, this dish becomes a staple in your culinary rotation.
Ingredients for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
- 1 cup olives (black or green, sliced for texture and flavor)
- 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled for that creamy, tangy touch)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for a hint of earthiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste (to balance the flavors)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional, it adds a refreshing touch)
Step-by-Step Directions for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to use plenty of water to achieve that perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the olives, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. This mélange of ingredients will create a flavor-packed base for your pasta.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well combined. This ensures that each strand of pasta is coated in the flavorful mixture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. This is the perfect moment to make your dish uniquely yours!
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley, if desired. This step not only enhances the dish’s appearance but also adds a fresh touch to each bite.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some Chef’s secrets to elevate your Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta:
- For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- Experiment with different types of pasta to customize the dish to your preferences.
- To enhance the flavor, let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.
- Leftover vegetables from your fridge, like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, can be tossed in for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta is incredibly versatile. It makes for a great side dish alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. For a Mediterranean-themed meal, pair it with Greek-style grilled lamb or fish topped with lemon and herbs. This pasta salad can also serve as a light, standalone meal during the warmer months. Serve it chilled for a refreshing picnic option or warm for a cozy dinner. Consider adding a glass of sparkling water adorned with fresh lemon or mint for a delightful complement.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta contains approximately 350 calories. The key nutritional highlights include healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, carbohydrates from pasta for energy, and fiber from olives. Rich in flavor and made with fresh ingredients, this dish allows for the occasional indulgence while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.
Storing Tips & Variations for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
For any leftovers, Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This dish also makes for excellent meal prep; simply divide it into portions for quick lunches throughout the week. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture. If you’re searching for healthier swaps, consider using whole grain or legume-based pasta for added nutrition. Creative variations can include swapping olives for sun-dried tomatoes or adding spinach for an extra pop of color and nutrients.
Conclusion for Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
Why wait? Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta is a dish that deserves a spot in your recipe book. With its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s not just a meal but an inviting experience that you can share with friends and family. Dive into this delicious recipe, and you’ll never look at pasta the same way again!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Let the flavors meld for the tastiest result.Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals.Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would make excellent additions to turn this into a more protein-rich meal.How do I choose the right pasta for this dish?
Any pasta can work beautifully! Opt for shapes like penne or fusilli that can hold onto the dressing well or go for spaghetti for a classic feel.What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option or prefer a milder flavor, try using crumbled tofu, goat cheese, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy.
Tossed Pasta with Olives and Feta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant dish that combines pasta, olives, and feta cheese for a delightful Mediterranean experience.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice—penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup olives (black or green, sliced)
- 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in plenty of water until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the olives, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Adjust ingredient quantities to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
