Mediterranean One Pot Pasta with Tomatoes, Feta, Black and Green Olives 🍝🍅

This delightful Mediterranean One Pot Pasta is bursting with flavors and colors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta creates a light yet satisfying dish that transports your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean! Plus, the best part? Everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and halved (Kalamata or your favorite)
• 1 cup green olives, pitted and halved (Castelvetrano or your favorite)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent burning.

3. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the cherry tomatoes, spaghetti (or linguine), dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.

🥄 Make sure to keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks. If it seems too dry, add a splash of water or extra broth to keep it from sticking.

5. Once the pasta is cooked, remove it from heat and fold in the black and green olives and the crumbled feta cheese. Allow to sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

6. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

🍃 For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some high-quality olive oil over the dish before serving. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness!

Variations

• Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. You won't miss the creaminess! 🌱
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. Toss them in just before serving to warm through.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta of your choice, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean feast that's quick, easy, and full of vibrant flavors! Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹✨