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Simple Mediterranean Olive Oil Pasta

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  • Author: Lidia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 9 minutes
  • Total Time: 19 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A quick, fresh Mediterranean olive oil pasta made with garlic, tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, feta, and herbs. Light yet flavorful, perfect for lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb thin spaghetti
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, crushed
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 12 oz grape tomatoes, halved
  • 3 scallions, chopped
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 6 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained
  • ¼ cup pitted olives, halved
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (or more if preferred)
  • 1015 fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions (about 6 minutes).
  2. While the pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Reduce heat and add the crushed garlic with a pinch of salt, stirring constantly for about 10 seconds. Do not let garlic brown.
  3. Stir in the parsley, halved tomatoes, and chopped scallions. Cook over low heat until just warmed through, about 30 seconds.
  4. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the olive oil–garlic mixture over the pasta and toss well to coat.
  5. Add the black pepper, artichoke hearts, olives, feta, basil, and lemon zest. Toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve immediately, optionally topping with extra basil or feta.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
  • For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tuna.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes or capers can be used for variation.
  • Add lemon juice or white wine for brightness.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg