Spaghetti with salsa cruda and feta

Spaghetti with salsa cruda and feta is a fresh, Mediterranean-style pasta dish featuring vibrant cherry tomatoes, red onion, and creamy feta. It's simple to prepare, combining cooked pasta with a refreshing salsa that’s perfect for a light meal.

11 Jan 2026
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 3 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3/4 cup feta cheese
2 cups cherry tomatoes
1/2 red onion
1/2 cup basil leaves
1/3 cup olives
1 tsp black pepper
Spaghetti with salsa cruda and feta

Spaghetti with salsa cruda and feta is a vibrant and refreshing dish that's perfect for a light but satisfying meal. This recipe combines the robust flavors of fresh cherry tomatoes, red onions, basil, and olives with the creamy tang of feta cheese. It's a simple yet delicious pasta dish that is sure to please your taste buds with its Mediterranean flair.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Do not rinse the pasta.
2. Prepare the Salsa Cruda:
1. While the pasta is cooking, in a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and sliced olives.
2. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with the freshly ground black pepper.
3. Add the torn basil leaves and mix gently to combine. Allow the mixture to sit and marinate while the pasta finishes cooking.
3. Combine Pasta and Salsa Cruda:
1. Once the pasta is drained, add it to the bowl with the salsa cruda.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the tomato mixture. Add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water if needed to help distribute the sauce and ensure everything is well combined.
4. Add the Feta:
1. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
5. Serve:
1. Divide the pasta among serving plates.
2. Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish!

Spaghetti with salsa cruda and feta offers a delightful combination of fresh and savory flavors, making it a wonderful dish for any occasion. With minimal cooking involved, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Serve it with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread to complete the meal.

Spaghetti with salsa cruda and feta FAQ:

What is the best pasta to use for this recipe?

Any long pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine works well for this dish. Choose a type you enjoy, but avoid very short pasta shapes as they may not hold the sauce well.

How long should I cook the spaghetti?

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-12 minutes, depending on the brand. Remember to reserve some pasta cooking water before draining.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This pasta dish is best served fresh for optimal flavor and texture. If you need to prepare it in advance, store the components separately (pasta, salsa cruda, and feta) and combine just before serving.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you need a substitute for feta cheese, try using goat cheese or ricotta for a similar creamy texture. If you're looking for a vegan option, consider using crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to maintain moisture.

Tips:

- For best results, use ripe cherry tomatoes; they will provide the sweetest flavor and juiciest texture.

- If you prefer a milder taste, soak the red onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the dish to reduce its sharpness.

- Crumbled feta cheese works best as it can easily mix with the pasta and other ingredients, ensuring even distribution of its creamy texture.

- Feel free to use your favorite type of olives, whether they are Kalamata, green, or black, to tailor the flavors to your preference.

- Cook the pasta until it is al dente; this will help it hold up better when mixed with the salsa cruda.

- Add the olive oil right before serving to keep the dish fresh and maintain the distinct flavors of each ingredient.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 480kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 4.55g
Sugar 5g
Fat 20g

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