Greek spaghetti

Embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with this vibrant and flavorful Greek-inspired Spaghetti recipe. Bursting with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, this dish promises a symphony of taste that will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. From the zing of lemon to the tang of olives and the richness of feta cheese, each bite is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal, this Spaghetti recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. So, let’s dive into the delightful process of creating this mouthwatering dish that celebrates the essence of Greek cuisine.

Greek-Inspired Spaghetti

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ⅓ cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
• 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Optional: fresh chopped basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to package directions. Once cooked, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the cooked spaghetti, toss gently, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Saute the Cherry Tomatoes:
   To the skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes along with the remaining olive oil. Saute the tomatoes for several minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Add Spinach and Seasonings:
   Once the cherry tomatoes are softened, add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Then, add the sliced kalamata olives, lemon juice, vinegar, dried oregano, kosher salt, and ground black pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine Spaghetti with Vegetable Mixture:
   Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked spaghetti to the vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat the spaghetti in the flavorful sauce.
6. Add Feta and Basil:
   Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves over the spaghetti and vegetable mixture. Toss one more time to combine all the ingredients evenly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish the Greek-inspired Spaghetti with additional fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.

Conclusion:

With its tantalizing blend of fresh vegetables, zesty lemon, tangy olives, and creamy feta cheese, this Greek-inspired Spaghetti is a true celebration of Mediterranean cuisine. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that will transport you to the sunny shores of Greece. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or served as a special meal for family and friends, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and irresistible taste. So, gather your ingredients and let the flavors of the Mediterranean enchant your taste buds with every mouthful of this delicious Spaghetti recipe.