It’s Pasta with Bell Peppers, Tomatoes, and Olives

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of this Mediterranean Style Baked Pasta!

This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a symphony of tastes and textures. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, its enticing aroma and colorful presentation are sure to captivate your senses.

Each forkful of this dish brings a burst of fresh, zesty flavors, reminiscent of the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, making every bite a journey to a far-off land.

Mediterranean Style Baked Pasta Recipe

Skill Level – Beginner

This recipe is perfect for beginners. It involves basic cooking techniques like boiling pasta, sautéing vegetables, and baking. The simplicity of the method, coupled with the forgiving nature of the ingredients, makes it an ideal dish for those new to cooking.

Health Benefits

This recipe is packed with vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, and olives offer healthy monounsaturated fats.

Time & Servings

• Prep/Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes.
• Servings: Serves 4-6.

Mediterranean Style Baked Pasta Ingredients

• 450 grams (1 lb) of pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
• 2 bell peppers (any color), large chopped
• 400 grams (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes (or 1¾ cup fresh)
• 150 grams (¾ cup) black olives, pitted and halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 60 ml (¼ cup) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 150 grams (¼ cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50 grams (¾ cup) grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in canned tomatoes, olives, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce.
7. Transfer everything into a baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Tips for Perfection

• Cook pasta until just al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• For added richness, a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese can be added before the mozzarella.

Optional Ingredients

• Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
• Add 1 cup of spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Incorporate ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.

Vegan / Vegetarian Suggestions

• Select cheeses that are vegetarian. (Some cheeses contain animal rennet.)
• For a vegan version, use plant-based cheeses and pasta.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
• A glass of light red wine like Chianti complements the flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400-500
• Protein: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 60-70g
• Fat: 15-20g
• Fiber: 5-7g

Storing & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warm.

Origin

Certainly, this dish, while not traditional to any specific region, embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients used in everyday cooking can create extraordinary meals.

Mediterranean cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that spans several countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Turkey, Lebanon, and others.

This cuisine is renowned for its emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, reflecting the region’s cultural diversity and historical influences.

Here are some key aspects of Mediterranean cuisine:

1. Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients: The hallmark of Mediterranean cooking is the use of fresh, seasonal produce. Vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplants, cucumbers, and leafy greens are staples. Fruits such as figs, grapes, and citrus also play a significant role.
2. Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine, used both for cooking and as a dressing. It’s prized for its health benefits, including heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Nuts and seeds are also common, providing additional healthy fats and texture.
3. Herbs and Spices: Mediterranean dishes are often flavored with a variety of herbs and spices. Commonly used herbs include basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and mint. Spices like saffron, cumin, and paprika are also prevalent, contributing to the cuisine’s distinctive flavors.
4. Lean Proteins: The diet includes moderate amounts of lean proteins, primarily from fish and poultry. Red meat is consumed less frequently. Legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas, are important protein sources, especially in vegetarian dishes.
5. Whole Grains and Pasta: Whole grains like wheat, barley, and farro are staples, often appearing in breads, pasta, and salads. The use of whole grains contributes to the high fiber content of Mediterranean meals.
6. Cheese and Yogurt: Dairy, particularly cheese and yogurt, is consumed in moderate amounts. Feta and Parmesan cheeses, as well as Greek yogurt, are among the favorites.
7. Moderate Wine Consumption: In many Mediterranean cultures, meals are often accompanied by a glass of wine, particularly red wine, consumed in moderation.
8. Eating as a Social Activity: Perhaps one of the most significant aspects of Mediterranean cuisine is the emphasis on communal and leisurely meals. Eating is considered a social affair, with family and friends gathering to enjoy food together.

Additionally…

The Mediterranean diet, which is based on these traditional foods and eating habits, is often cited for its potential health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and other chronic conditions.

It is also known for its sustainability, focusing on plant-based ingredients while incorporating animal products in smaller amounts.

In summary, Mediterranean cuisine is not just about the ingredients or recipes; it’s a reflection of the culture, history, and lifestyle of the Mediterranean people, emphasizing freshness, flavor, and the joy of sharing meals with others.

Mediterranean Style Baked Pasta

It is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, friendship, and the joy of sharing good food.

Its simplicity, combined with its robust flavors, makes it a dish that you’ll return to time and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table.

In case you love pasta as much as me, may I recommend these pasta dishes?