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Indulgent Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Recipe
From sun-kissed tomatoes to creamy feta, this indulgent Mediterranean pesto pasta transforms ordinary dinners into coastal culinary escapes.
Why You’ll Love this Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta
Comfort in a bowl, this Mediterranean pesto pasta combines the freshness of traditional pesto with the indulgent creaminess we all crave after a long day.
I’m absolutely obsessed with how the silky sauce clings to every ridge of the penne, delivering pockets of flavor with each bite. The sun-dried tomatoes provide that perfect sweet-tart punch, while the feta slowly melts, creating little pockets of salty goodness.
And those kalamata olives? They’re the bold, briny finish that ties everything together. Trust me, this isn’t just dinner—it’s a 20-minute Mediterranean vacation on your plate.
What Ingredients are in Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta?
This Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta is all about blending those classic Italian and Mediterranean flavors into something truly special.
The ingredient list might look a bit long at first glance, but don’t worry – each component brings something unique to the dish, creating layers of flavor that transform simple pasta into something restaurant-worthy.
The combination of creamy, tangy, salty, and herby elements creates that perfect comfort food balance we’re all searching for.
- 500g pasta (penne or spirals)
- 190g pesto sauce
- 1 cup pouring cream
- 150g sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 150-200g feta cheese, cubed
- 50-100g kalamata olives, pitted
When shopping for these ingredients, quality really makes a difference.
If you can, opt for authentic Greek feta packed in brine rather than the pre-crumbled variety – it melts more beautifully into the sauce.
For the pesto, you can certainly use store-bought for convenience, but if you have five extra minutes, homemade pesto will take this dish to the next level.
And don’t skimp on those sun-dried tomatoes! The oil-packed variety brings an extra dimension of richness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
My mouth is watering just thinking about this combination.
How to Make this Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta
Creating this luxurious Mediterranean pasta dish is surprisingly simple, and the results are absolutely restaurant-worthy. Start by cooking 500g of pasta (penne or spirals work beautifully here) according to the package directions until they reach that perfect al dente texture—still slightly firm when bitten. You know what I’m talking about—that magical point where the pasta isn’t crunchy but isn’t mushy either. That sweet spot.
While your pasta bubbles away, it’s time to create that velvety sauce that makes this dish so special. In a saucepan, combine 190g of pesto sauce with 1 cup of pouring cream and 150g of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Gently bring this mixture almost to a boil, then immediately reduce to a simmer. The aroma at this point is absolutely heavenly, with the basil from the pesto and the rich sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes creating the most mouthwatering scent in your kitchen.
After about 3-5 minutes of simmering, add 150-200g of cubed feta cheese and 50-100g of pitted kalamata olives to the sauce. The feta won’t completely melt but will soften just enough to create little pockets of tangy creaminess throughout the sauce.
Once your pasta reaches that perfect al dente stage, drain it well and return it to the pot. Pour your warm, creamy pesto sauce over the pasta and stir thoroughly to coat every single piece. The sauce will cling to all the nooks and crannies of the pasta, creating the perfect bite every time. For an elevated seafood variation, consider adding freshly sautéed shrimp prepared using premium seafood appliances designed specifically for cooking delicate ingredients.
The contrast between the creamy pesto sauce, tangy feta, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes creates a Mediterranean flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Who needs expensive restaurants when you can create this kind of magic at home?
Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta Substitutions and Variations
While the original recipe creates a magnificent Mediterranean masterpiece, don’t feel constrained by the exact ingredients listed!
I’m all about making recipes your own. Swap penne for farfalle or orecchiette—those little ear-shaped pasta pieces catch the creamy sauce beautifully. Not a fan of feta? Try goat cheese or even a mild blue cheese for a tangier kick.
You can lighten things up by using half-and-half instead of cream, or go dairy-free with coconut cream.
Grilled artichoke hearts make a lovely addition, and a handful of toasted pine nuts adds delightful crunch to this adaptable dish.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta
Although this creamy pesto pasta stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with complementary sides elevates the entire Mediterranean dining experience. I’m always looking for that perfect balance when serving this dish.
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly, while warm, crusty garlic bread is essential for soaking up every last drop of that decadent sauce.
For protein, I’d suggest grilled chicken or seared shrimp placed atop each serving.
Don’t forget a chilled glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc—the acidity beautifully balances the creamy, cheesy elements of this indulgent pasta.
Final Thoughts
After spending years perfecting this Mediterranean pesto pasta recipe, I’m convinced it’s the ideal balance of comfort and sophistication for any dinner table.
The creamy sauce, punctuated with tangy feta, briny olives, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate with every bite.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility—it’s equally at home at a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
The measurements are forgiving, so don’t hesitate to adjust the proportions of feta or olives to suit your taste preferences.
Trust me, this will become your go-to pasta recipe!
