The Mediterranean region is renowned for its stunning coastline, warm climate, and vibrant culture. But it’s not just the scenery that makes this place so special – it’s also the food! The Mediterranean diet is famous for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, herbs, and olive oil, which creates a flavor profile that’s both bold and elegant.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean with 20 mouthwatering pasta recipes that showcase the region’s signature flavors. From seafood-packed pasta dishes to vegetarian delights, each recipe highlights the freshness and simplicity of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered.
**Stay tuned for the complete list of 20 Flavorful Mediterranean Pasta Recipes with Fresh Ingredients!**
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A bright and flavorful pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon garlic sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add lemon juice and stir to combine with any remaining garlic and oil. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and tomato mixture. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-American dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of creamy spinach and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these stuffed shells are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-feta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the shells are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Kalamata Olives
Celebrate the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant orzo salad, featuring the rich taste of Kalamata olives and a medley of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Add cooked orzo, Kalamata olives, red bell pepper, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes with the comfort of pasta, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation and short cooking time, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes; stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, artichoke mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pasta with Tzatziki Sauce
A refreshing summer pasta dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the cool and creamy tanginess of tzatziki sauce, all wrapped up in a flavorful and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, linguine)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss cooked pasta with olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and grilled chicken.
5. Serve tzatziki sauce on top of the pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a simple and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in roasted red pepper flesh (remove seeds and membranes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the red pepper mixture and crumbled goat cheese.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Inspired Pasta with Cucumber and Mint
This refreshing pasta dish combines the flavors of Greece with the coolness of cucumber and mint, perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add cucumber slices to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until slightly softened.
4. Stir in chopped mint leaves and cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta and cucumber mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Pasta with Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the flavors of fresh herbs, grilled vegetables, and al dente pasta for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer evening gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill eggplant and zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, and basil. Cook over medium heat for 1 minute.
5. Add grilled eggplant and zucchini to the skillet and toss with herbs and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta with Capers and Lemon
Mediterranean Tuna Pasta with Capers and Lemon: A bright and refreshing pasta dish that combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the protein-packed goodness of tuna.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water, drained
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in tuna, capers, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flavors combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tuna mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta alla Norma with Roasted Eggplant
This iconic Italian recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, tomatoes, and pasta for a satisfying and flavorful dish. Pasta alla Norma is a staple of Sicilian cuisine, originating from Catania.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni
– 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) cubes
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted eggplant, and tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with chopped basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of garlic, olive oil, and fresh basil creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile that’s hard to resist. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and golden brown.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with garlic and oil. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated.
4. Stir in chopped fresh basil leaves. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Roasted Garlic and White Wine Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, aromatic sauce featuring roasted garlic and white wine. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, spaghetti)
– 4-5 cloves garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast garlic: Cut the top off each clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted garlic, white wine, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Pasta with Mussels and Clams
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty seafood pasta dish, featuring succulent mussels and clams, savory garlic shrimp, and a hint of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb mixed seafood (mussels, clams, and shrimp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add seafood to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until mussels and clams open (about 5 minutes). Remove cooked seafood from the skillet with a slotted spoon.
4. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, seafood, and sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Pasta with Grilled Halloumi and Pesto
A simple yet flavorful summer pasta dish that combines the creaminess of pesto with the crispy sweetness of grilled halloumi cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (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. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush halloumi slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, and reserved pasta water. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
4. Add grilled halloumi to the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Lemony Chickpea and Arugula Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the tanginess of lemon with the earthy flavor of chickpeas, all on a bed of peppery arugula. A perfect combination for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz.)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chickpeas are coated in the sauce.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, arugula, and chickpea mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Veggies
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant pasta dish, bursting with colorful seasonal vegetables and infused with aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture; toss to combine.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Anchovies, Garlic, and Breadcrumbs
This classic Italian dish combines the savory flavors of anchovies, garlic, and breadcrumbs to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the chopped anchovies and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until they dissolve into the oil.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the breadcrumbs to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the anchovy-garlic-breadcrumb mixture. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Mediterranean Pasta Bake with Ricotta and Spinach
A flavorful and satisfying pasta bake that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese, the nutty taste of spinach, and the warmth of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach leaves, Parmesan cheese, olives, artichoke hearts, garlic, and oregano.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pasta with Sautéed Kale and Pine Nuts
This recipe combines the health benefits of kale with the rich flavor of pine nuts, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet in batches, cooking until wilted (about 3-4 minutes per batch). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir in pine nuts and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and sautéed kale mixture. Toss to combine and serve hot. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash
This hearty pasta dish combines the warmth of roasted butternut squash with the brightness of Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its creamy sauce and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs.)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the butternut squash for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and roasted squash to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce in a serving bowl. Top with feta cheese (if using) and garnish with parsley or basil.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with these 20 delicious pasta recipes! From seafood to vegetables, and from classic to innovative dishes, this collection has something for everyone. With fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes, artichokes, goat cheese, and Kalamata olives, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast without leaving your kitchen. Treat yourself to a taste of la dolce vita with these flavorful and easy-to-make pasta recipes!
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