Pollo Mediterranean Food

SPAGHETTI AGLIO E OLIO

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and salt the water well (about 2 tablespoons of kosher salt). Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dante or a little before (mine took about 9 minutes). Before you drain the pasta, make sure to reserve about 1 ½ cups of the pasta cook water.
• Meanwhile, 4 minutes after you add the pasta to the boiling water, warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, tossing regularly until the garlic is just turning golden brown (manage the heat well so that the garlic does not overcook). Add the red pepper flakes and toss for 30 seconds or so. If the pasta is not ready, move the oil off the heat for now.
• Carefully ladle the reserved pasta cooking water in the pan. Bring to a simmer until the liquid reduces by about 1/3.
• Add the cooked pasta and toss around for a couple of minutes. Turn the heat off and add the parmesan and parsley. Toss to combine.
• Allow the pasta a couple more minutes to rest and absorb the sauce. Serve with more Parmesan and red pepper flakes to the side.

GREEK QUINOA SALAD

Steps:

• Whisk together the lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, garlic and some salt and pepper in a small bowl. Slowly whisk in the oil until emulsified. Let sit at room temperature while you prepare the salad to allow the flavors to meld.
• Rinse the quinoa in a strainer until the water runs clear. Combine the quinoa, 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small saucepan, bring to a boil and cook until the water is absorbed and the quinoa is tender, about 15 minutes.
• Transfer to a bowl, fluff with a fork and let sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Add the tomatoes, olives, green onions, cherry peppers, red onions, cucumbers and dressing and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours before serving. The longer it sits the better the flavor.
• Just before serving, transfer to a platter and sprinkle feta on top.