Greek Spaghetti: A Delicious & Easy Mediterranean Recipe

Greek Spaghetti, a delightful Mediterranean twist on a classic comfort food, is about to become your new weeknight staple! Forget the same old tomato sauce; we’re diving headfirst into a vibrant, flavorful experience that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Imagine tender spaghetti, coated in a rich, tangy sauce bursting with fresh tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a symphony of aromatic herbs. Are you hungry yet?

While pasta itself isn’t traditionally Greek, the ingenious combination of Mediterranean ingredients transforms it into something truly special. This dish draws inspiration from the core flavors of Greek cuisine, known for its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple, yet satisfying preparations. Think of it as a culinary bridge, connecting the familiar comfort of spaghetti with the bold, bright flavors of the Aegean.

People adore Greek Spaghetti for its incredible flavor profile. The salty olives, creamy feta, and sweet tomatoes create a harmonious balance that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying. It’s also incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra vegetables and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean diet. Get ready to experience a pasta dish unlike any other!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Sauce:

1. First, let’s get started on the heart of this dish – the sauce! In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer, but not smoke.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want those onions to release their sweetness and form a flavorful base.
3. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be intoxicating at this point!
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine everything.
5. Now, for a touch of Greek magic, add the dry red wine (if using). The wine adds depth and richness to the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate. If you’re skipping the wine, just proceed to the next step.
6. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as you go.
7. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. I often let mine simmer for an hour or more!
8. While the sauce is simmering, prepare the spaghetti according to package directions. Be sure to salt the pasta water generously – this is your only chance to season the pasta itself! Cook until al dente, meaning it’s still slightly firm to the bite.
9. About 10 minutes before the sauce is done simmering, stir in the Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. These ingredients add a salty, briny, and fresh element to the sauce that is truly irresistible.
10. Give the sauce a final taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.

Cooking the Spaghetti:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The amount of salt should be about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water. This is crucial for properly seasoning the pasta.
2. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, and it refers to pasta that is firm to the bite, not mushy.
3. While the pasta is cooking, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold and can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
4. Drain the spaghetti in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta unless you are making a cold pasta salad.

Combining and Serving:

1. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet or pot with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
2. Serve immediately. Garnish with additional crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
3. For an extra touch, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over each serving.
4. Enjoy your delicious and authentic Greek Spaghetti! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. Kali Orexi! (Bon appétit!)

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic.
• Use different types of olives: If you don’t have Kalamata olives, you can use other types of olives, such as green olives or black olives.
• Add meat: For a heartier meal, add ground beef, ground lamb, or Italian sausage to the sauce. Brown the meat before adding the onions and garlic.
• Make it vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the meat.
• Make it vegan: To make this dish vegan, omit the feta cheese and Parmesan cheese. You can also use a vegan feta cheese alternative.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Brown the onions, garlic, and any meat you’re using in a skillet. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the olives, feta, and parsley during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cook the spaghetti separately and add it to the slow cooker just before serving.
• Freezing Instructions: This Greek Spaghetti freezes well. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Cook the spaghetti fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Make Ahead Tip: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with a Greek salad for a complete and balanced meal.
• Serve with a glass of dry red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 per serving
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 60-70 grams

Enjoy your homemade Greek Spaghetti! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Greek Spaghetti recipe isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a vibrant, flavorful journey to the Mediterranean, right in your own kitchen. The combination of tangy feta, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and fragrant herbs creates a symphony of tastes that will leave you craving more. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a little sunshine to their dinner table. It’s quick, easy, and packed with healthy ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own preferences. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a delightful crunch, while a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of Mediterranean goodness. You could also swap out the spaghetti for whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, or even use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Greek Spaghetti is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes. And don’t forget the wine! A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, will complement the flavors perfectly.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights. But more than that, it’s the incredible flavor that keeps me coming back for more. It’s a taste of sunshine, a reminder of warm summer days, and a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to your family and friends, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Did you try this Greek Spaghetti recipe? What variations did you make? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I’m always eager to see how you’ve made the recipe your own. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. So, don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see your culinary creations.