Mediterranean Pasta

Mediterranean Pasta

Mediterranean Pasta with tomatoes, artichoke, garlic, and lemon. A fast, healthy pasta recipe that’s easy to make and filled with bright flavor! Keep the recipe vegetarian or serve with chicken or shrimp. A nutritious all-in-one meal.

Ingredients

  • kosher salt

    plus 1 teaspoon, divided

    1 tbsp
  • whole wheat angel hair pasta)

    whole wheat spaghetti, or similar whole wheat noodles (i recommend delallo whole wheat pasta

    6 oz
  • garlic
    4 cloves
  • grape tomatoes

    or cherry tomatoes

    2 c
  • quartered artichoke hearts)

    (14 ounces

    1 can
  • whole pitted black olives)

    (6 ounces

    1 can
  • good-quality olive oil
    3 tbsp
  • ground black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • crushed red pepper flakes
    ¼ tsp
  • freshly squeezed lemon juice

    about 1 lemon

    ¼ c
  • freshly grated parmesan cheese
    ¼ c
  • fresh italian parsley

    chopped

    ¼ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon salt. Cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.

  2. 2

    While the water boils and pasta cooks, prep your vegetables and remaining ingredients: mince the garlic; halve the cherry tomatoes; drain and roughly chop the artichokes; drain and slice the olives in half. Once the vegetables start cooking, the recipe goes quickly, so you want to be ready.

  3. 3

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the tomatoes, garlic, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the tomatoes begin to break down and release some juices into the oil, 1 to 2 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add the pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Add the artichokes and olives. Drizzle the lemon juice over the pasta. Continue tossing and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until warmed through. If the pasta seems too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley. Toss once more and enjoy.

Mediterranean Pasta

Mediterranean Pasta

4.8(206)375 cal

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Ratings & Reviews

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Based on 206 ratings

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4.8(206 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a healthy, vibrant meal that comes together in a flash? This Mediterranean Pasta recipe delivers on all fronts, bringing a burst of fresh flavor to your dinner table without compromising on nutrition or ease.

Why This Mediterranean Pasta Works Wonders

This Mediterranean Pasta is a true weeknight hero because it combines fresh, bright ingredients into a wholesome, all-in-one meal. The simplicity of pairing tender whole wheat pasta with the robust flavors of sun-kissed tomatoes, briny artichoke hearts, aromatic garlic, and a bright squeeze of lemon creates a satisfying dish that feels both indulgent and incredibly light. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a heart-healthy pasta dinner that's bursting with good-for-you ingredients.

Expect a symphony of fresh, zesty, and savory notes in every bite. The juicy grape or cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, complemented by the tangy artichoke hearts and the salty kick of black olives. A hint of crushed red pepper flakes provides a gentle warmth, perfectly balanced by the bright, clean finish of fresh lemon juice and herbaceous Italian parsley. This healthy pasta is light yet deeply flavorful, making it a perfect choice when you want a nutritious meal that doesn't feel heavy.

Customization & Variations

This versatile Mediterranean Pasta recipe can easily be adapted to your pantry and preferences. While delicious as a vegetarian meal, you can easily add lean protein like cooked chicken or shrimp for a more substantial dish. Feel free to swap whole wheat angel hair pasta for whole wheat spaghetti or another similar whole wheat noodle you have on hand. If fresh grape tomatoes aren't available, cherry tomatoes work beautifully as a substitute.

Serving & Context

This Mediterranean Pasta is ideal for a quick, healthy dinner any night of the week. It’s a complete meal on its own, perfect for those evenings when you want something flavorful and satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions