The Mediterranean diet is renowned for its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and emphasis on whole grains. When it comes to pasta dishes, this cuisine shines with its bold combinations of herbs, spices, and ingredients like olives, artichokes, and feta cheese. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a meat-eater, there’s a Mediterranean pasta recipe out there to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the sun-kissed Mediterranean region, highlighting 20 mouthwatering pasta recipes that showcase its signature flavors. From classic combinations like garlic shrimp and lemon orzo to innovative twists like roasted eggplant and chickpea farfalle, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling full and satisfied.
So sit back, grab a fork, and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean!
Garlic Shrimp and Lemon Orzo Pasta
A flavorful and light pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines succulent garlic shrimp with a bright and citrusy lemon orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked orzo pasta with the garlic shrimp mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Penne
A classic Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish that combines the tanginess of feta cheese with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the tomato mixture and crumbled feta cheese.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Kalamata Olives
This salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Chickpea Farfalle
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious dish, combining the richness of roasted eggplant with the creaminess of chickpeas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 8 oz farfalle pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions.
6. Drain chickpeas and rinse with cold water.
7. Combine cooked farfalle, roasted eggplant, and chickpeas in a large bowl.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Linguine with Lemon Zest
This creamy linguine dish combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and lemon zest for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add cooked linguine to the skillet and toss with artichoke mixture until pasta is coated.
4. Sprinkle with lemon zest and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Spaghetti with Olives and Feta
Discover the flavors of Greece in this easy and delicious spaghetti recipe, infused with the savory taste of olives and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add sliced olives to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, olive mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Red Peppers and Pine Nuts
This Italian-inspired dish combines the classic flavors of pesto pasta with the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the crunch of pine nuts. A perfect quick weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the chopped red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add roasted red peppers and pine nuts to the skillet. Toss with the pesto sauce until well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the pesto-red pepper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and aromatic recipe that combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and grilled chicken. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add lemon juice, olive oil, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon-garlic sauce.
7. Slice grilled chicken and serve on top of spaghetti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta with Capers and Tomatoes
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta with Capers and Tomatoes Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant pasta dish, featuring canned tuna, cherry tomatoes, capers, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4-6 capers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, capers, and tuna. Stir gently to combine.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the tomato-tuna mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley.
7. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Orzo with Roasted Vegetables and Goat Cheese
This flavorful side dish combines the nutty taste of orzo with the sweetness of roasted vegetables, topped with crumbled goat cheese and a hint of fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and zucchini; cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked orzo with roasted vegetables and chopped herbs.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Feta and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and spinach-packed take on the classic stuffed shells recipe. With a rich and tangy filling, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, feta, ricotta, Parmesan, flour, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each shell with the filling, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the shells, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Pasta with Olives and Artichokes
This recipe brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean in a hearty, one-pot pasta dish. With its blend of olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add artichoke hearts, olives, chicken broth, wine (if using), tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta and stir to coat with the sauce.
5. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Ziti with Eggplant and Ricotta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ricotta cheese, tender eggplant, and classic baked ziti for a delicious twist on a beloved dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant slices and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of the pasta mixture, followed by a layer of eggplant slices, and finally another layer of pasta mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemony Orzo with Grilled Shrimp and Asparagus
This refreshing summer dish combines the nutty flavor of orzo with the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of grilled shrimp, and the crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and cooked orzo. Add grilled shrimp and asparagus; toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and basil with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, all on a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato-basil mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Arrange sliced mozzarella cheese on top of pasta. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the mozzarella.
6. Serve immediately, enjoying the harmony of flavors and textures.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chorizo and Bell Pepper Rigatoni
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of chorizo with the sweetness of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a hearty rigatoni dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 1 lb Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook chorizo over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add bell peppers, garlic, and onion. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add cooked rigatoni, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Primavera with Zucchini and Squash
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in this colorful pasta dish, featuring sautéed zucchini and squash, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add zucchini and squash slices; cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Pasta with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add chopped rosemary and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, followed by cooked pasta. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated with garlic and rosemary mixture.
6. Place cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
7. Serve pasta topped with roasted cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Sardines and Lemon
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the nutty flavor of whole wheat spaghetti with the brininess of sardines, all wrapped up in a zesty lemon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 can (4.5 oz) sardines in olive oil, drained and flaked
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the flaked sardines and stir to combine with the garlic mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the sardine-lemon sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Harissa Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpeas
This recipe combines the bold flavors of North African cuisine with the comfort of pasta, roasted vegetables, and creamy chickpeas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 cups (400ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) harissa paste
– 1/4 cup (30g) olive oil
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz or 410g), drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, combine harissa paste and 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add cooked pasta, roasted cauliflower, and chickpeas to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 delicious Mediterranean pasta recipes to elevate your mealtime. From classic combinations like garlic shrimp and lemon orzo to bold flavors like chorizo and bell pepper rigatoni, these mouthwatering dishes are perfect for any occasion. With ingredients like olives, feta, artichokes, and roasted vegetables, you’ll be transported to the Mediterranean coast with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these recipes have got you covered.
