Light summer bolognese

Light Summer Bolognese is a fresh take on the classic dish, combining ground beef with vibrant tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, finished with a hint of lemon zest. This hearty yet refreshing pasta recipe is perfect for warm evenings.

12 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
4 tomatoes
2 garlic cloves
2 cups beef broth
16 oz pasta
1/2 cup olives
3/4 cup feta cheese
2 tbsp lemon zest

Light Summer Bolognese is a refreshing twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. This version uses fresh tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a burst of summer flavors, paired with the richness of ground beef and the zestiness of lemon. Perfect for a warm evening, this dish is both hearty and light.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the tomatoes.
- Slice the olives.
- Crumble the feta cheese.
- Zest the lemon.

2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

3. Make the Bolognese Sauce:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, until they start breaking down.
- Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
- Add the sliced olives and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

4. Combine and Finish:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the bolognese sauce and gently toss to combine.
- Stir in the lemon zest, giving the dish a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve:
- Divide the pasta among serving plates.
- Sprinkle each serving generously with crumbled feta cheese.

6. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest or fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy a light, summery twist on a classic bolognese!

This Light Summer Bolognese is a delightful dish that brings together the best of summer ingredients and comforting pasta. It's easy to make and sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this meal with a side salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete dining experience.

Light summer bolognese FAQ:

What type of pasta works best for Light Summer Bolognese?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but short pasta like penne or fusilli works well as they hold the sauce nicely. Just ensure it's cooked until al dente according to the package instructions.

How do I know when the ground beef is fully cooked?

The ground beef is fully cooked when it is browned and there is no pink remaining. Use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Can I store leftovers of the Light Summer Bolognese?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

What are some good substitutions for the olives in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use olives, you can substitute them with capers for a similar briny flavor, or leave them out entirely and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

How can I make this recipe lighter or more diet-friendly?

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or opt for a whole grain or legume-based pasta. Reducing the amount of feta cheese can also help lower the calorie count.

Tips:

- Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor in your sauce.

- Cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming too mushy when mixed with the sauce.

- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the beef and onions.

- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the tomatoes before adding them to the dish.

- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 940kcal
Protein 45g
Carbohydrates 100g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 9g
Fat 44g

Light summer bolognese