Pasta Phylimena
A fresh and vibrant pasta dish with basil, oregano, green onions, and tomato, perfect for a light lunch or dinner with bold Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped basil, oregano, green onions, and tomato with pressed garlic, vinegar, and olive oil.
- Add the mixture to cooked pasta of your choice.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for half an hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you don't have Romano cheese, Parmesan can be a great substitute. You can also personalize this dish by incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even proteins like chickpeas for a heartier meal. This dish is versatile, making it easy to adapt to your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta Phylimena is delicious served warm, but chilling it enhances the flavors, making it a refreshing dish for summer meals. Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes, making it a great addition to a themed dinner. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it on the stovetop over low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Phylimena contains roughly 483 calories, with 13g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1199mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional pasta works well, feel free to experiment with whole wheat, gluten-free, or even vegetable-based pasta to suit your dietary preferences. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure perfect texture.
What can I do if I don't have fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs aren't available, you can use dried herbs instead. Generally, use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For example, 1 teaspoon of dried basil can replace 1 tablespoon of fresh basil. Just remember, dried herbs can sometimes be more potent.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and the herb mixture separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best flavor. If you choose to chill it, let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This makes it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).