Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives

A Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish bursting with tangy feta, briny olives, and fresh cherry tomatoes. This vibrant and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that feels both comforting and refreshing.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Pasta

This dish brings the bold, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your table in under 30 minutes. It’s:

• Light yet filling

• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients

• Loaded with vibrant veggies and herbs

• Perfect warm or at room temperature

• A great meatless option for any day of the week

Whether served as a main dish or a side, this pasta is full of bright, zesty flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few pantry and fresh ingredients to bring this Greek-inspired pasta together:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped

• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Greek Pasta with Feta and Olives

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and chopped red onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften and burst.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Stir in the Kalamata olives, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
If the mixture seems dry, gradually stir in reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Add Feta and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle in the crumbled feta. Gently stir to mix.
Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Add greens: Toss in baby spinach or arugula at the end for extra freshness.

• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.

• Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm for dinner or lunch

• Enjoy as a chilled pasta salad the next day

• Pair with grilled meats or a Greek side salad

How to Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil or water if needed.