Dinner

Greek Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Kalamata Olives, Feta, and Fresh Basil Recipe

Name: Greek Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes, Kalamata Olives, Feta, and Fresh Basil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb spaghetti; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing pasta); 1 small red onion, finely diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided as 1 tbsp for pasta, 1 tbsp for onions, remaining for tomatoes); Juice of half a lemon; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ⅓ cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced; 4 oz crumbled feta cheese; 4-5 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced; Optional: fresh chopped basil or parsley for garnish

ByRafael Mansero March 2, 2026March 2, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Greek Spaghetti is a vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic pasta dish, combining fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs. This easy recipe brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

1 lb spaghetti
4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 small red onion (finely diced)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
Juice of half a lemon
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
2 cups fresh baby spinach
⅓ cup pitted kalamata olives (sliced)
4 oz crumbled feta cheese
4-5 fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)
Optional: fresh chopped basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Toss the cooked spaghetti with 1 tablespoon olive oil and set aside.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the diced red onion until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in cherry tomatoes and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cook for several minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Step 5: Add the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Mix in the sliced kalamata olives, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute to blend flavors.
Step 7: Remove the pan from heat and add the prepared spaghetti. Toss well to coat the pasta in the vegetable mixture. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 8: Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves. Toss once more to combine everything evenly.
Step 9: Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your bright, Mediterranean-inspired meal!

Tips & Variations

For added protein, toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Use fresh oregano instead of dried for a more vibrant herb flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
Swap baby spinach for arugula or kale for a different leafy green texture.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep the pasta moist.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white plate filled with a colorful spaghetti dish featuring long, yellow pasta strands tossed with wilted dark green spinach leaves, small softened cherry tomato halves in bright red and orange shades, and black olive slices. The dish also includes white crumbly cheese pieces scattered throughout, adding texture. A fork lifting a bite of pasta shows a mix of all the elements, with the noodles wrapped around the fork, topped with spinach, cheese, and a piece of tomato. The background is a soft white marbled texture with blurred kitchen items. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. Ensure your pasta contains no eggs if strict vegan standards are required.