Greek Spaghetti

Greek Spaghetti: A Mediterranean Delight

Discover the exquisite fusion of flavors with our Greek Spaghetti recipe, a Mediterranean delight that promises a culinary adventure in every bite. This dish beautifully marries the classic comfort of spaghetti with the fresh, vibrant ingredients characteristic of Greek cuisine. It’s a simple yet sophisticated meal, perfect for weeknights, yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

To bring this Mediterranean bliss to your table, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
• 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Optional: fresh chopped basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prep the Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to the package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pasta, toss to coat, and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the diced onions until they’re soft and translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Then, introduce the cherry tomatoes along with the remaining olive oil, cooking until the tomatoes are softened.
4. Incorporate Spinach: Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, blending the flavors together.
5. Mix in the Olives and Seasonings: Stir in the Kalamata olives, lemon juice, vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to marry the flavors.
6. Combine with Spaghetti: Remove the skillet from the heat and add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the vegetable mixture.
7. Final Touches: Add the crumbled feta and sliced fresh basil. Toss gently to combine.
8. Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish with a garnish of fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the Mediterranean flavors at their best.

Tips for Perfection

• Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water is a chef’s secret to creating a sauce that clings perfectly to the spaghetti.
• Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality olive oil and feta cheese. These ingredients make a significant difference in taste.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the quantities of garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

This Greek Spaghetti recipe is a testament to the versatility and charm of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a dish that balances simplicity with flavor, offering a wholesome and delightful meal option. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine or impress guests with your culinary skills, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy the fusion of tastes and the joy of cooking something truly special.

Remember, cooking is not just about feeding the body but also about nourishing the soul. So, put on your chef’s hat, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a flavorful journey to the Mediterranean. Buon Appetito!