Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Red Bell Peppers, Arugula, and Feta
Category: Main Course (Pasta)
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Spaghetti | 320g |
| Red Bell Peppers | 450g |
| Arugula | 50g |
| Feta Cheese | 150g |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 150g |
| Rosemary | To taste |
| Sage | To taste |
| Thyme | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 60g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by thoroughly washing and drying the herbs and vegetables. Finely chop the rosemary, sage, and thyme. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
Cut the red bell peppers into thin strips and halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside. -
Cook the Aromatics:
In a large pan, heat 20g of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and begins to shimmer, add the chopped herbs. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the sliced red bell peppers to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the mix. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. -
Cook the Spaghetti:
While the vegetables are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the cooking water. -
Combine the Pasta and Vegetables:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. If the mixture seems a little dry, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help bring it together. -
Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Toss in the fresh arugula and crumbled feta cheese. The residual heat from the pasta and vegetables will slightly wilt the arugula and soften the feta, creating a deliciously creamy texture. -
Final Seasoning:
Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined. -
Serve:
Plate your whole wheat spaghetti with red bell peppers, arugula, and feta, ensuring each serving has a good mix of vegetables, cheese, and pasta. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips:
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add a dash of balsamic vinegar just before serving to enhance the sweetness of the roasted bell peppers.
- For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds over the dish.
- This dish is perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal with a balanced combination of veggies, whole grains, and protein-rich feta.
Enjoy your vibrant and healthy meal of whole wheat spaghetti with red bell peppers, arugula, and feta, a simple and delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors!
