If you’re in the mood for a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than this Easy Mediterranean Pasta with Artichokes, Tomatoes, and Feta. It’s a vibrant dish that brings together fresh flavors in a delightfully simple way.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this pasta recipe delivers a taste of the Mediterranean with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Ready to enjoy a burst of sunshine on your plate?
Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the whole-wheat spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions. After draining, save 1 cup of the pasta water and return the pasta to the pot.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are browned. Pour in the white wine and let it evaporate, which should take a few minutes.
- Add the artichoke hearts to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to brown. Stir in half of the cherry or grape tomatoes and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the skillet mixture, adding the remaining tomatoes and another tablespoon of olive oil. If needed, use the reserved pasta water to ensure the spaghetti is well-coated.
- Serve the pasta on plates, generously topping with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- Coarse salt and ground pepper
- 12 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or thinly sliced crosswise
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (13.75 oz) artichoke hearts, drained, rinsed, and quartered lengthwise
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, julienned or torn
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of whole-wheat spaghetti?
- Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand. The sauce pairs well with various pasta shapes, so use your favorite or whatever you have available.
- What can I use as a substitute for artichoke hearts?
- If you’re not a fan of artichokes or don’t have any, you can try substituting with mushrooms or zucchini. They provide a different texture but still complement the other ingredients well.
- Is there an alternative to feta cheese in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use grated Parmesan cheese instead of feta. Both cheeses add a distinct flavor, so choose based on your preference.
- How can I make this dish more Mediterranean?
- To enhance the Mediterranean flair, consider adding kalamata olives. They provide a unique flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes available?
- If fresh tomatoes are not accessible, feel free to use a can of diced tomatoes. This will still give you the tomato flavor needed for the dish.
Tips
- Use Reserved Pasta Water Wisely: Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water can be used to thin the sauce and help it adhere better to the pasta.
- Adjust Ingredients to Taste: If you enjoy olives, consider adding kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist, or substitute with other vegetables you have on hand. This recipe is flexible and can accommodate various fresh ingredients.
- Choose Your Cheese: While the recipe suggests feta or Parmesan, feel free to experiment with other cheeses for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings a unique taste to the dish.
- Cook Pasta Until Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This texture will complement the sauce and ingredients better than overcooked pasta.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Julienne slicer or herb scissors (for julienning or tearing basil)
- Garlic press (optional, if mincing garlic isn’t done with a knife)
- Wine opener (if not already owned, for opening the wine bottle)
