Name: Mediterranean Veggie Pasta with Feta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), sliced; 1 zucchini, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

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Mediterranean Veggie Pasta with Feta is a delightful dish that brightens up your mealtime with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a touch of creamy feta cheese. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this pasta is a fantastic choice.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with healthy ingredients. It’s loaded with colorful vegetables that offer essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes! It’s a wonderful option for vegetarians and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Making your own Mediterranean Veggie Pasta means you can control the ingredients, making it as light or as hearty as you prefer.

How to Make Mediterranean Veggie Pasta with Feta

Making your Mediterranean Veggie Pasta is simple and straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a vibrant and tasty meal ready in no time!

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), sliced
1 zucchini, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced red onion, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the vegetables. Season with crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Veggie Pasta!

How to Serve Mediterranean Veggie Pasta with Feta

This pasta dish is best served warm. You can plate it individually or serve it family-style in a large bowl. For an extra touch, sprinkle feta cheese on top just before serving. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor even more. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Mediterranean Veggie Pasta with Feta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This pasta will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or sauté it in a skillet with a little olive oil until heated through.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Veggie Pasta with Feta

Feel free to swap out any vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, artichokes, or cucumbers would all work well.
If you’re not a fan of olives, you can leave them out or replace them with capers for a different flavor.
To make this dish heartier, consider adding protein like chickpeas or grilled chicken.

Variation

You can create a Mediterranean Veggie Pasta Bake by adding a layer of shredded mozzarella on top and baking it in the oven until bubbly. This adds a delicious cheesy twist to the classic recipe!

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

2. How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese, or replace it with a vegan alternative. The dish will still be full of flavor!

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine everything shortly before serving for the best texture and flavor.