Mediterranean Spaghetti

Dive into the vibrant, sun-kissed flavors of Mediterranean Spaghetti, a quick and healthy pasta dish brimming with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender spaghetti with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and nutritious baby spinach, all tossed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil sauce. A touch of lemon zest and juice adds brightness, while oregano and crushed red pepper flakes bring warmth and depth. Ready in just 30 minutes, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is both comforting and full of Mediterranean charm, with optional Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of indulgence. Serve it hot for an irresistible meal that's as easy as it is flavorful.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 pieces garlic cloves
• 300 grams cherry tomatoes
• 100 grams kalamata olives
• 150 grams fresh baby spinach
• 1 piece lemon
• 0.5 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the spaghetti aside.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Finely mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.

Step 5

Slice the kalamata olives in half and add them to the skillet along with the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 6

Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts.

Step 7

Zest and juice the lemon, adding both the zest and juice to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 8

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, if needed, to loosen the sauce and help it adhere to the pasta.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 10

Serve the Mediterranean Spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1120.1 grams (1120.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1617

Total Fat 87.80g	113%
Saturated Fat 19.80g	99%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 40mg	13%
Sodium 4533mg	197%
Total Carbohydrate 160.20g	58%
Dietary Fiber 23.70g	85%
Total Sugars 13.50g
Protein 50.90g	102%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 931mg	72%
Iron 16mg	91%
Potassium 1933mg	41%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 48.3%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 39.2%