Mediterranean Pasta with Feta

Name: Mediterranean Pasta with Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz. pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Tasty Creations

I absolutely love preparing Mediterranean Pasta with Feta whenever I want a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of al dente pasta, vibrant vegetables, and tangy feta cheese creates a delightful dish that transports me to sun-soaked shores. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this pasta always impresses. It's quick and easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be reaching for this recipe time and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:38:19.476Z

I've experimented so many times with Mediterranean flavors, and I found that the best way to embrace them is in a pasta dish. By including fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, and spinach, I make sure to highlight the vibrant tastes of the region. The addition of feta cheese brings a creamy, salty bite that pairs perfectly with the other components.

One tip I've learned is to reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. When mixed in later, it helps to create a silkier sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. This not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the overall experience of the dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold Mediterranean flavors that delight the palate
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy nights
Healthy ingredients packed with nutrients

Understanding Key Ingredients

The heart of Mediterranean Pasta with Feta lies in its vibrant ingredients. Cherry tomatoes add not only sweetness but also a burst of color that brightens the dish. When sautéed, they soften beautifully, releasing their juices, which helps create a light sauce that clings to the pasta. Opt for the ripest tomatoes available, as this will enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish significantly.

Feta cheese is another standout component. Its tangy flavor complements the earthiness of olives and the freshness of spinach wonderfully. When adding feta, consider choosing a block and crumbling it yourself; this way, you can control the size of the crumbles and ensure a creamier texture that infuses into the pasta. Additionally, if you're a fan of feta’s flavor but need a dairy-free alternative, try using a vegan feta made from nuts.

Perfect Cooking Techniques

Properly cooking your pasta is essential for achieving that ideal al dente texture. Always remember to salt your water generously before adding pasta; this is the only opportunity to season the pasta itself as it cooks. Once cooked, a quick rinse will wash away the starch, so avoid that unless your dish requires it. Instead, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce later if needed.

When sautéing vegetables, heat olive oil until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough to sauté without burning. Add garlic first, allowing it to become fragrant, but be mindful not to let it brown—this usually takes about 1 minute. Introduce the tomatoes and spinach once the garlic is aromatic, stirring frequently until lush and softened. If the mixture seems dry, don't hesitate to add a splash of pasta water to keep everything moist and vibrant.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serving Mediterranean Pasta with Feta can be as versatile as the dish itself. For a touch of elegance, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors further. Pair it with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices on the plate.

If you're planning to enjoy leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pan; this helps revive the dish's texture. Freezing is also an option, but the feta may change texture, so I recommend omitting it before freezing and adding fresh feta during reheating for the best experience.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Mediterranean masterpiece!

Pasta Ingredients

12 oz. pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, chopped
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors that these ingredients bring to your dish.

Cooking Steps

Follow these steps to create your Mediterranean Pasta with Feta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted and tomatoes are softened.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the olives and stir to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Add Feta and Season

Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently until well combined.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Serve warm and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas. Adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand for a customizable dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself without feta cheese, a good alternative could be goat cheese, which offers a similar tangy flavor profile. For a creamier version, consider using ricotta cheese mixed with a bit of lemon juice to mimic the tanginess of feta. In case olives are not your preference, capers can also add a delightful brininess to the dish.

Should you wish to add protein to this pasta, grilled chicken or shrimp can be excellent additions. Simply sauté these ingredients separately and toss them in during the final combining stage. They complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully and make the dish heartier.

Variations and Additions

Consider adding a variety of vegetables to the mix to enhance the nutritional profile of the dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts can be delightful additions that not only add color but also boost the flavor and texture. Roast them beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.

For an Italian twist, a sprinkle of Italian herbs like oregano or thyme can lend an aromatic essence to the dish. If you prefer a more rustic flavor, incorporating sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes can also elevate the taste while staying true to Mediterranean roots.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the joys of Mediterranean Pasta with Feta is that it holds up well for a couple of days, making it a perfect make-ahead option. You can prepare the pasta and sautéed vegetables earlier in the day, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Just combine and add the feta just before serving to maintain its texture.

To serve a crowd or for meal prep, consider doubling the recipe. This dish scales wonderfully, and the flavors meld even more when allowed to sit for a day. When reheating, remember to add extra moisture with reserved pasta water to keep the consistency just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and adjust the cooking time as necessary.

→ How long does leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or even artichokes for additional flavor and nutrients.

→ Is this pasta suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge and you can reheat it easily for a quick meal.