Description
Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a delightful vegetarian dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This easy-to-make casserole combines juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy artichoke hearts, savory kalamata olives, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it offers a satisfying taste experience without requiring hours in the kitchen. With its straightforward preparation and make-ahead options, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served as a main course or side dish, Baked Mediterranean Pasta is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 (12 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
- 200 grams bocconcini (mozzarella balls), halved (or more, for extra cheesy topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rotini in salted boiling water until al dente (6–8 minutes), then drain and return it to the pot.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Combine sautéed vegetables with cooked pasta, artichoke hearts, and olives; toss gently.
- Transfer to a casserole dish; top with halved mozzarella balls.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Allow cooling for 15 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg