Dive into the heart of Mediterranean flavors with this delightful Greek Spaghetti recipe. Imagine the vibrant taste of fresh cherry tomatoes paired with the savory punch of olives, all wrapped up with perfectly cooked spaghetti. It's not just a dish; it's an experience. Inspired by the sun-kissed shores of Greece, this pasta is an embodiment of simple ingredients coming together to create a symphony of flavors.
Whether you're longing for a summer vacation or simply want to serve up a plateful of sunshine, this dish promises to transport you straight to a Greek island.
Why This Recipe Works
Simplicity Meets Flavor: One of the best aspects of this Greek Spaghetti is its simplicity. Using just a few, but high-quality ingredients, you're able to create a dish that radiates authenticity and rich flavor. The cherry tomatoes offer a fresh, juicy burst in every bite, while the olives bring in a unique briny touch, making every forkful a delightful surprise.
Versatility: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or preparing a weekday dinner, this recipe fits the bill. It's quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy evenings. Moreover, it's easy to tweak based on what you have on hand. Want to add some feta cheese or perhaps some grilled chicken? Go for it! This dish welcomes variations, ensuring that you have a plate that's both delicious and uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Spaghetti - The main component. Spaghetti works well with the toppings, ensuring a nice balance with every bite. Substitute: Any pasta of choice like penne or fusilli.
Cherry Tomatoes - Sweet and juicy, they add freshness and color. Substitute: Regular tomatoes, diced, but cherry tomatoes tend to be sweeter and less watery.
Kalamata Olives - These give the dish its signature Greek flavor. They're tangy and meaty. Substitute: Black or green olives, though Kalamata is preferred for authenticity.
Feta Cheese - Crumbly, salty, and with a distinctive tang. It's a Greek classic! Substitute: Ricotta salata or crumbled goat cheese.
Olive Oil - Used to sauté and bring everything together. Greek olive oil is known for its rich flavor. Substitute: Any good quality extra-virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Always cook pasta al dente, as it continues to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Use quality olive oil; it makes a significant difference in the flavor.
- If using pitted olives, ensure all pits are removed to avoid any surprises while eating.
- For an extra punch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish even further.
How to Serve
Greek spaghetti celebrates the simplicity and rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Its vibrant ingredients make it a delightful dish on its own.
- As a Main: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining olive oil goodness.
- With Protein: Accompany the spaghetti with grilled chicken or shrimp for a more filling meal.
- Salad Side: A simple Greek salad or a green salad with a lemon-olive oil dressing pairs beautifully, enhancing the Mediterranean theme.
Similar Recipes
Instant Pot Spaghetti and Meatballs
Instant Pot Spaghetti Bolognese
Greek Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 400 g Spaghetti
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted and sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil or oregano for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly soft.
- Toss in the olives and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with feta cheese.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if using, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
- Always cook pasta al dente, as it continues to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Use quality olive oil; it makes a significant difference in the flavor.
- If using pitted olives, ensure all pits are removed to avoid any surprises while eating.
- For an extra punch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish even further.