Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable and nutritious pasta dish. Packed with vibrant greens and aromatic herbs, this recipe is a delightful combination of freshness and taste. The pasta is cooked to perfection and then tossed with sautéed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing, every bite is bursting with tangy and savory goodness. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Try this Mediterranean pasta recipe for a healthy and flavorful dining experience.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 cup of spinach leaves
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the whole wheat penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped kale and spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, chopped basil, and chopped parsley.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sautéed greens and vegetable mixture in the skillet.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top of the pasta.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Kale is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K.
The Mediterranean diet is known for its health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting longevity.
Whole wheat pasta is a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full for longer.
The combination of lemon juice, basil, and parsley adds a refreshing and vibrant flavor to the dish.
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be easily customized by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.