Immerse yourself in the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean with a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant party of taste-Greek-Style Pasta Bake with Feta & Olives.This enchanting recipe weaves together tender pasta, tangy feta cheese, briny olives, and fragrant herbs, capturing the essence of coastal Greece in every bite. More than just a comforting casserole,it’s a culinary journey to a land where wholesome,bold flavors reign supreme,inviting you to experience the magic of the Mediterranean right from your own kitchen. Weather you’re craving a weeknight winner or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece, this pasta bake promises a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will leave you longing for just one more forkful.
Mediterranean Magic: Greek-Style Pasta Bake with Feta & Olives is a vibrant celebration of sun-soaked flavors from the heart of Greece. Combining the briny punch of Kalamata olives, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, this dish transforms simple pasta into a soul-warming feast. Inspired by customary Greek ingredients and culinary spirit, it’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Yield
- Serves 6 generously
Difficulty Level
- Medium – approachable for confident home cooks
Ingredients
- 400g penne pasta,uncooked
- 200g Kalamata olives,pitted and halved
- 300g cherry tomatoes,halved
- 250g feta cheese,block or crumbled
- 1 medium red onion,finely sliced
- 3 cloves garlic,minced
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp dried oregano (preferably Greek oregano)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp fresh dill,chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley,chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage browning.
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente,about 8 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the red onion and garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed onions and garlic, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, Greek yogurt, dried oregano, smoked paprika, lemon juice, half of the chopped dill, and parsley. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture feels dry or thick.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. distribute half of the feta cheese evenly over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish by crumbling the remaining feta cheese across the surface, creating an even layer.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of salt,black pepper,and additional oregano if desired.
- Bake uncovered in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the feta topping is golden and slightly bubbling. For an extra golden crust, switch to broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Tips for Success
- Use block feta for the topping rather than pre-crumbled to achieve a gorgeous golden crust.
- Reserve pasta water carefully-adding it gradually helps maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.
- Fresh herbs like dill and parsley brighten the dish but can be swapped with basil or thyme for variation.
- For a dairy-free option, replace Greek yogurt with coconut cream and omit the feta, finishing with a nutritional yeast sprinkle instead.
- Make ahead: Assemble the bake a few hours before and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Greek-style pasta bake straight from the oven with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for shine. A wedge of lemon on the side adds zest for those who prefer an extra citrus kick.Complement the dish with a crisp green salad featuring cucumber, red onion, and a simple vinaigrette. For a classic Mediterranean touch, add warm pita bread or garlic-infused flatbreads to scoop up the creamy, tangy pasta.
Mediterranean Magic: Greek-Style Pasta Bake with Feta & Olives Pairing
Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, whose luminous acidity balances the richness of the feta and yogurt. Alternatively, a light, fruity red like Agiorgitiko complements the salty olives beautifully without overpowering the delicate herbs. Side dishes such as roasted lemon potatoes or a refreshing tzatziki dip further elevate your Mediterranean feast.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Fat | 14g |
Explore more Greek recipes to enhance your Mediterranean Magic: Greek-Style Pasta Bake with Feta & Olives experience.
Q&A
Q&A: mediterranean Magic – Greek-Style Pasta Bake with Feta & Olives
Q1: What makes this Greek-style pasta bake different from a typical pasta casserole?
A1: Unlike your everyday pasta bake, this Greek-inspired dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors-think tangy feta, briny Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant oregano. It’s a vibrant celebration of Greece’s coastal charm baked right into a comforting, cheesy casserole.
Q2: Why use feta and olives together in this dish?
A2: Feta and olives are culinary soulmates. Feta’s creamy, salty tang pairs perfectly with the rich, slightly bitter depth of Kalamata olives.Together, they inject punchy, authentic Mediterranean flavor that elevates the pasta bake from ordinary to remarkable.
Q3: can this recipe work with different types of pasta?
A3: Absolutely! While tubular pastas like penne or rigatoni work best to hold all those luscious flavors and creamy sauce, fusilli or farfalle can bring a fun twist. Just make sure the pasta has some nooks and crannies to capture that appetizing sauce and melty cheese.
Q4: Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
A4: Yes, it’s a perfect vegetarian feast! Loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and that irresistible feta-olive combo, you get all the hearty satisfaction without any meat.For vegans, swapping feta for a plant-based cheese alternative can keep the magic alive.
Q5: How can I add a bit of spice or warmth to the bake?
A5: Spice lovers can stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some smoked paprika into the sauce. A drizzle of harissa or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon can also add a subtle warmth that complements the Mediterranean profile beautifully.
Q6: What sides pair wonderfully with this greek-style pasta bake?
A6: Keep the Mediterranean theme going with a crisp Greek salad, warm pita breads, or a chilled tzatziki dip.A simple lemony arugula salad can also brighten the table and balance the richness of the bake.
Q7: Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
A7: Definitely! You can assemble it the day before and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld overnight-a true Mediterranean magic trick.
Q8: What’s the best way to achieve that golden, bubbly cheese topping?
A8: A broil at the very end of baking does the trick. Keep a close eye to avoid burning,but a swift blast under the broiler will brown the feta and give you irresistible little crispy edges that add texture and visual appeal.
Q9: How can I make this dish lighter without losing flavor?
A9: Use part-skim feta and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. Incorporate plenty of fresh or roasted vegetables like zucchini,bell peppers,or spinach. Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt in the sauce for tanginess and a lighter touch.Q10: why is Mediterranean cuisine so popular in pasta dishes?
A10: Mediterranean cuisine marries simplicity with bold flavors-olive oil, fresh herbs, bright citrus, and quality cheeses-which naturally complements pasta’s comforting nature. This fusion creates dishes that are nourishing, colorful, and oh-so delicious, highlighting the best of both worlds.
Insights and Conclusions
As the sun sets on this Mediterranean feast, your kitchen fills with the irresistible aromas of tangy feta, briny olives, and perfectly baked pasta-a harmonious tribute to Greek culinary tradition. This Greek-style pasta bake isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the magic of simple, vibrant ingredients coming together in perfect balance. Whether shared with family or enjoyed as a comforting solo indulgence, it’s a dish that captures the heart of the Mediterranean and brings a little sun-soaked charm to your table. So next time you crave a bite of the coast, remember: a little feta, a handful of olives, and a warm oven is all you need to transport yourself to the idyllic shores of Greece. Opa!
