Craving a delicious and healthy weeknight meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen all evening? Then this 15-Minute Mediterranean Pasta recipe is for you! This vibrant pasta dish bursts with fresh flavors and is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch. Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe some friends!) with this quick and satisfying meal.
The Magic of Mediterranean Flavors
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor it achieves with minimal ingredients. We’re talking sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a bright lemon dressing that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast. The salty olives, sweet tomatoes, and tangy lemon create a perfect harmony that complements the pasta beautifully. 
What You’ll Need: A Pantry-Friendly Recipe
One of the best parts about this recipe is that it uses mostly pantry staples! You probably already have most of the ingredients on hand. This makes it a fantastic choice for those impromptu dinner plans or when you’re short on time for grocery shopping. We’ll be using pasta (any short shape works great!), cherry tomatoes (or any tomatoes you have), Kalamata olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil. For the full ingredient list and detailed instructions, check out our printable recipe card.
Cooking Instructions: Ready in 15 Minutes
This recipe is all about speed and efficiency. Start by cooking your pasta according to package directions. While the pasta cooks, you can prep your ingredients: chopping the tomatoes, measuring the olives, and getting your herbs ready. Once the pasta is cooked, toss everything together with a simple lemon vinaigrette. It’s really that simple! Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of feta cheese for that extra creamy, salty flavor. 
For tips on achieving the perfect al dente pasta, check out our guide on cooking pasta like a pro.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal, or substitute artichoke hearts for the olives if you prefer. You can also add different herbs to change up the flavor profile. Looking for some extra spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick! For more inspiration on Mediterranean cuisine, you might enjoy this blog post from The Mediterranean Dish or this recipe for Greek Lemon Chicken.
Serving Suggestions and Styling
Serve this pasta immediately for the best flavor and texture. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of feta cheese. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the pasta on a platter and drizzle with extra lemon vinaigrette. This dish is equally delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks. For more stunning food photography tips, check out our guide on food photography 101. 
This 15-minute Mediterranean pasta is a true winner. Its vibrant flavors, simple ingredients, and quick preparation time make it a perfect weeknight meal. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? This pasta is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving.
What kind of pasta works best? Any short pasta shape, like rotini, penne, or farfalle, will work well.
Can I use different types of olives? Yes, feel free to use other types of olives, such as Castelvetrano or green olives.
What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes? You can substitute with regular cherry or grape tomatoes.
Is this recipe gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.