Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, then Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is the perfect recipe to try. This delightful pasta combines tender noodles with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and that unmistakably creamy, tangy feta cheese to create a harmonious and colorful meal. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully fresh, and brings a touch of sunshine to your plate with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, aroma, and texture that make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives so irresistible. From the juicy cherry tomatoes to the zingy lemon zest, each component is simple yet essential for an authentic taste.

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice): Choose a shape that holds sauce well and has a nice bite.
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a fragrant Mediterranean aroma to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a warm, savory base that elevates the flavor profile.
• ½ small red onion (finely chopped): Offers a gentle sweetness and subtle crunch.
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved): Burst of freshness and natural sweetness that balances the salty feta.
• ½ cup Kalamata olives (sliced): Adds a briny, tangy punch that is signature to Greek dishes.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus zing.
• 1 tsp lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor without adding acidity.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an earthy herbaceous note typical in Mediterranean cooking.
• ½ tsp dried basil: Contributes a sweet, floral layer to the seasoning.
• ¼ tsp salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
• ¼ tsp black pepper: Offers a mild heat that rounds out the taste.
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled): Creamy, tangy, and salty—this is the heart of the dish.
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed for sauce): Helps to loosen the sauce and bring everything together perfectly.
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh aromatic finish.

How to Make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key for well-seasoned pasta. Add your chosen pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente, which means it still has a bit of bite without being too soft. Drain the pasta, but be sure to save about half a cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid will come in handy later to bring the sauce together beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, warm 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and finely chopped red onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent—this step is where the flavors start building an irresistible foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes

To the skillet, add your halved cherry tomatoes and cook for approximately 4 to 5 minutes. As they soften and begin to burst, they release their sweet juices, creating a light and luscious base. Stir occasionally so every piece cooks evenly and the flavors meld deliciously.

Step 4: Combine Everything

It’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet along with the sliced Kalamata olives, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything gently to mix well. If the mixture feels a bit dry, gradually stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach a lovely saucy consistency that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Step 5: Add the Feta and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle in the crumbled feta cheese. Stir with care so the chunks remain creamy and intact, providing little pockets of tangy goodness throughout the dish. Finish with a few fresh basil leaves and an optional drizzle of extra olive oil for that beautiful glossy touch. Serve your Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives immediately and watch it disappear in no time.

How to Serve Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves on top add not just a burst of bright green color but also a sweet, herbal aroma that complements the rich feta and briny olives perfectly. If you love heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. A few more pitted Kalamata olives can also amp up the Mediterranean vibes for guests who adore bold flavors.

Side Dishes

This Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives pairs wonderfully with a fresh Greek salad or warm pita bread for dipping. A simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice echoes the pasta’s vibrant freshness. For a heartier meal, pair it with grilled chicken or fish to balance the creamy and tangy elements on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Present this pasta in rustic bowls that highlight the colorful medley of tomatoes, olives, and feta. Serving it family-style in a large shallow dish invites everyone to dig in and fosters a warm, communal dining experience. For a fun twist, stuff the pasta into hollowed-out tomatoes or roasted bell peppers to impress your guests with a clever presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal. Just keep in mind that fresh basil is best added just before serving to retain its vibrant flavor and color.

Freezing

While you can freeze this pasta, the texture of the fresh tomatoes and feta may soften upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider leaving out the fresh tomatoes and basil, then adding them fresh after reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the pasta looks dry. Avoid microwaving at high temperatures to prevent the feta from melting too much and changing the texture. Stir occasionally until warmed through and serve immediately with a fresh garnish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Feta is traditional and really central to the flavor of Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives, but if you prefer, you can use goat cheese or ricotta salata for a similar tangy creaminess. Just keep in mind that the saltiness and texture might vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

The classic version uses feta cheese, which is made from animal milk, so it’s not vegan. However, you can substitute vegan feta alternatives or omit the cheese altogether and add extra olives or roasted vegetables for richness.

What pasta shapes work best for this dish?

Penne, fusilli, or any short, sturdy pasta shapes that can hold onto the sauce work best. Their curves and grooves trap the tomatoes, olives, and feta nicely in every bite.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can sauté the aromatics and tomatoes in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta fresh, combine, and add the finishing touches like feta and lemon zest.

How spicy is this recipe?

This Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is naturally mild and focuses on bright, herbaceous, and tangy flavors. You can always add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, but it’s perfectly flavorful without any spice.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives is one of those special recipes that feels both familiar and exciting every single time you make it. It’s quick enough for busy days but impressive enough for guests, with a perfect balance of brightness, creaminess, and Mediterranean flair. I truly encourage you to try it out—you might find this simple yet stunning pasta dish becoming a beloved staple at your table.

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