Ingredients
– 12 ounces of whole-grain pasta (spaghetti or penne work well)
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ cup black olives, pitted and sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lemon
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Creating Mediterranean Pasta can be effortless if you follow these easy steps:
1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the whole-grain pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add Bell Pepper and Zucchini: Stir in the chopped bell pepper and sliced zucchini. Cook for another 4–5 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
6. Mix in Olives and Spices: Stir in the sliced olives, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow to cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the flavored oil and vegetables.
8. Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pasta, mixing well.
9. Garnish with Parsley: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
10. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
These steps will guide you to a delicious dish of Mediterranean Pasta that is sure to amaze everyone around the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 12g