Easy Mediterranean Pasta: Garlic shrimp, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and herb mayo on spaghetti. Quick & flavorful! #MediterraneanPasta #EasyDinner
- **Whole Wheat Pasta**: Opt for whole grains to boost fiber content
- **Tomato Paste**: Rich in flavor and antioxidants, perfect for tomato-based sauces
- **Olives**: Add a salty, briny twist; great source of healthy fats
- **Sun-Dried Tomatoes**: Dried tomatoes packed with umami flavors, excellent for adding depth
- **Capers**: Briny and tangy, capers are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine
- **Olive Oil**: Use extra virgin olive oil for best flavor and health benefits; essential for pasta cooking and sauce preparation
- **Garlic Cloves**: Minced garlic provides pungent flavor to the dish
- **Fresh Basil Leaves**: Adds a fresh, aromatic note to the pasta
- **Salt**: For seasoning, use sea salt for enhanced flavor
- **Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)**: Add heat if desired; perfect for those who like spicy food
- **Cherry Tomatoes**: Halved or quartered to add color and texture
- **Grated Parmesan Cheese** (Optional): For a richer taste and extra calcium
These ingredients can be easily found in local supermarkets or online, making it simple to prepare an authentic Mediterranean pasta dish.
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Steps
### Easy Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
#### Introduction to Mediterranean Pasta
Mediterranean pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Southern Europe's culinary traditions. This recipe combines fresh ingredients with simple cooking techniques to create an authentic taste experience right in your kitchen.
##### Step 2: Cook Pasta (SEO Keywords: Boiling Water, Al Dente Pasta)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti or another pasta type of your choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Once the onions are translucent, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in diced tomatoes and let them simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to develop flavor. Season with salt and pepper.
##### Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot or add it directly into the saucepan.
- Toss well to combine pasta and sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
- Transfer the pasta to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean pasta!
#### Tips and Variations
- **Add More Vegetables:** For extra flavor, you can include bell peppers or zucchini in this recipe.
- **Substitute Pasta:** Try using penne, fusilli, or any other pasta shape that complements the sauce.
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Mediterranean pasta dish. This meal not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables used in the recipe.