Mediterranean Pasta Recipe

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt.

Add 12 oz pasta and cook according to package directions until just shy of al dente (usually 1–2 minutes less than package). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Add the thinly sliced 1/2 cup red onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook 30–45 seconds, stirring, until fragrant but not browned.

Add 1.5 cups halved cherry tomatoes and 1/2 cup sliced roasted red peppers. Cook 3–4 minutes, pressing the tomatoes lightly with the back of a spoon to release juices.

Stir in 3 cups packed baby spinach and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted. Add 3/4 cup halved Kalamata olives and cook 30 seconds to warm through.

Reduce heat to low. Add 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Add the reserved 1 cup pasta cooking water in two additions as needed to loosen and create a glossy sauce. Simmer gently 1–2 minutes so flavors meld.

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss vigorously with the sauce and vegetables. If the mixture seems dry, add more reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until the sauce coats the pasta.

Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup crumbled feta and 1/4 cup grated pecorino or parmesan, allowing the cheeses to melt slightly and bind the sauce (about 30–60 seconds).

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

Finish by drizzling 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil over the pasta and folding in 1/4 cup torn fresh basil and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra feta or grated cheese if desired.