Mediterranean Pasta Bake

If you’re searching for a dish that beautifully marries comfort food with health-conscious ingredients, look no further than the Mediterranean Pasta Bake. This vibrant and flavorful dish encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine—colorful, fresh, and packed with nutrients. The Mediterranean Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it's a celebration of wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Discover the deliciousness of a Mediterranean Pasta Bake, a vibrant dish that combines comfort food with healthful ingredients. Packed with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, this bake is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Infused with rich Mediterranean flavors like tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy a wholesome meal that delights the taste buds while supporting your well-being. Try this delightful recipe today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

12 oz. penne pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered (canned or jarred)

1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in the cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and kalamata olives. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.

Mix in Greens: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season the mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetable mixture, crumbled feta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy this Mediterranean twist on a classic pasta bake that brings all the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings