When it comes to a vibrant feast, few cuisines can rival the Mediterranean’s ability to bring people together with its rich flavors and aromas. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, is renowned for its health benefits and delicious taste. And what better way to enjoy the region’s culinary delights than with a plate of pasta? In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful Mediterranean pasta recipes that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Greece, Italy, Spain, and beyond.
From classic combinations like garlic shrimp and lemon orzo to innovative twists like roasted eggplant and chickpea farfalle, these recipes showcase the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, there’s a Mediterranean pasta dish on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
Garlic Shrimp and Lemon Orzo Pasta
A flavorful and light pasta dish that combines succulent garlic shrimp with a zesty lemon orzo sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using boiling water and a pinch of salt. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice and stir to combine with any remaining garlic oil.
5. Combine the cooked orzo, shrimp, and lemon sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Penne
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tanginess of feta cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked penne pasta, tomato mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Olives and Artichokes
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of pasta. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine olives, artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta and toss until well coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Farfalle
Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Farfalle: A flavorful vegetarian pasta dish that combines the richness of roasted eggplant with the nutty taste of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast eggplant in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted eggplant, chickpeas, and oregano. Toss over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine cooked farfalle with the eggplant-chickpea mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy spinach and feta stuffed shells recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells al dente; set aside.
3. In a skillet, sauté garlic and spinach with olive oil until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked spinach mixture, crumbled feta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Stuff each shell with the spinach-feta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are golden brown and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Kalamata Olives
A bright and flavorful take on classic spaghetti, this dish combines the zest of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the brininess of Kalamata olives.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with lemon-garlic sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Stir in Kalamata olives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Inspired Orzo with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious Greek-inspired dish, featuring grilled chicken, succulent orzo, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped parsley and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked orzo to the skillet, stirring to combine with parsley mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and serve atop orzo mixture. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Sauce
This vibrant pasta dish combines sweet roasted red peppers with tangy feta cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The smoky flavor of the roasted peppers pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, garlic, feta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the roasted pepper sauce and season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Linguine
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this light and refreshing seafood linguine recipe, featuring succulent shrimp, scallops, and mussels in a zesty tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed seafood and cook until pink and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer sauce for 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked linguine with the seafood sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
This classic Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella is a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes. With the warmth of summer, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Add chopped basil leaves to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Top pasta with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive Tapenade and Whole Wheat Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful combination of rich olive tapenade and wholesome whole wheat spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 1/2 cup olive tapenade (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a small skillet, heat the olive tapenade over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Combine cooked spaghetti, olive tapenade mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss until well coated.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy sweetness of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicate pasta package. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these ravioli are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– All-purpose flour, for dusting
– Ravioli wrappers (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Beat the egg in a separate bowl.
3. Lay out a ravioli wrapper on a flat surface. Place a tablespoon of the herbed ricotta mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush the edges of the wrapper with the beaten egg.
5. Fold the wrapper over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Cook ravioli in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lamb and Mint Tagliatelle
This Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of tender lamb, fresh mint, and creamy Parmesan cheese with delicate homemade tagliatelle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 250g lamb mince
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 egg
– 100g all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
– 30ml olive oil
– 25g Parmesan cheese, grated
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine lamb mince, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Roll out the egg and flour mixture to a thickness of about 3mm (1/8 inch).
3. Cut into tagliatelle shapes (long, thin strips).
4. Cook the pasta in boiling, salted water for 2-3 minutes or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add lamb mixture and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
6. Combine cooked pasta, lamb mixture, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta cooking water in the skillet. Toss to combine.
7. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese
Elevate your pasta game with this light and refreshing summer recipe, featuring grilled zucchini and creamy goat cheese. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine grilled zucchini, goat cheese, and chopped parsley. Toss over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the zucchini is coated.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Pasta with Balsamic Glaze
A classic Italian combination of flavors, this Caprese pasta dish brings together the sweetness of fresh mozzarella, the tanginess of balsamic glaze, and the creaminess of basil. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mozzarella cheese and cook until melted and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the balsamic glaze and cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the mozzarella-tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Capers Mediterranean Pasta
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy pasta dish. Pan-seared tuna, salty capers, and fragrant herbs combine to create a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can (5 oz.) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add flaked tuna and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, breaking up any large pieces with a spatula.
4. Stir in chopped capers, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Rigatoni
Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Rigatoni: A hearty, comforting pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary with the simplicity of homemade rigatoni.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 12 oz (340g) all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup (250ml) rigatoni pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and chopped rosemary on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness. Cut into rigatoni shapes. Cook in boiling salted water for 4-6 minutes or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic mixture with reserved pasta cooking water. Stir until smooth. Add cooked rigatoni, tossing to coat. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pasta with Sautéed Eggplant and Pine Nuts
Elevate your pasta game with the sweet and savory combination of sautéed eggplant, toasted pine nuts, and rich tomato sauce. This recipe makes a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add eggplant slices and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in tomato sauce and reserved pasta water. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with sautéed eggplant mixture, toasted pine nuts, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these 18 delicious pasta recipes! From classic combinations like garlic shrimp and lemon orzo to innovative twists like roasted eggplant and chickpea farfalle, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at sun-dried tomato and feta penne, spinach and feta stuffed shells, or Greek-inspired orzo with grilled chicken. Each recipe is a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients like olives, artichokes, and Kalamata olives. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meat, or veggie-based dishes, there’s a pasta recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
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