Howdy! If you're seeking a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and versatility, the Greek Pasta Bake is your answer. Packed with Mediterranean goodness, this recipe is easy to prepare and is guaranteed to impress both family and friends. Whether you're in need of a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this Greek Pasta Bake has you covered.
Simple and Convenient
One of the best things about this Greek Pasta Bake is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time. The combination of pasta, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese creates a delightful blend of flavors reminiscent of sunny Greece. Plus, this recipe is highly adaptable—feel free to add your favorite Mediterranean ingredients to make it your own.
Optional Add-Ins
To enhance this dish, consider adding some protein like shrimp or rotisserie chicken. Shrimp adds a touch of elegance and pairs beautifully with the Mediterranean flavors, while rotisserie chicken offers a convenient and delicious option for a heartier meal. Simply toss in the cooked shrimp or shredded chicken after baking, and you’ll have a more substantial and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Storing Leftovers
Not only is this Greek Pasta Bake delicious, but it's also practical for meal planning. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days, making it a great choice for leftovers or meal prep. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through. The flavors meld together even more after a day or two, making the leftovers just as delightful as the freshly baked dish.
Recipe
📖 Recipe
GREEK PASTA BAKE
Ingredients
- 1 lb short pasta of any kind
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- ⅔ c kalamata olives pitted
- ⅔ c green olives
- ½ onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 t dried thyme
- 2 t dried oregano
- 3 T Olive oil
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- feta cheese for topping
Instructions
- Oven to 400.
- In a 11x7 or 9x13 baking dish, place olives, onions, cherry tomatoes, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper and 3T olive oil.
- Toss, then add marinara and stir to combine.
- Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
- While your sauce bakes, boil pasta in very salty water (don’t add until your water boils or it’ll scar your pot!) until just al dente, 7 minutes.
- Remove sauce from oven, drain pasta, toss into the baking dish and stir to combine.
- Serve in large bowls topped with feta cheese!
Notes
Nutrition
Achieving Perfect Al Dente Pasta
Achieving perfect al dente noodles is key for this dish. To do this, cook your pasta according to the package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by about two minutes. This ensures that the pasta is firm and slightly undercooked, allowing it to finish cooking in the sauce without becoming mushy. The result is beautifully textured pasta that holds up well to the hearty ingredients and creamy sauce. This dish provides a delightful bite in every forkful.
Adding Fresh Herbs
For an extra burst of flavor and a touch of freshness, consider adding some fresh herbs. A handful of chopped basil, oregano, or parsley can elevate the dish by adding a vibrant green color. Imagine the aromatic essence perfectly complementing the Mediterranean ingredients. Sprinkle the herbs on top just before serving for the best flavor impact.
With its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and versatility, this Greek Pasta Bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you're enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring the leftovers, this dish delivers a taste of the Mediterranean that’s both satisfying and comforting. Give it a try and bring a bit of Greek sunshine to your table!
Give this recipe a try, and tag me on Instagram @thefischerupper.
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