Pasta with Spinach and Feta Simple and Tasty Recipe

Ready to tantalize your taste buds? This Pasta with Spinach and Feta recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor. In just a few steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for lunches, dinners, or meal prep. With fresh spinach, creamy feta, and a hint of lemon, it’s a delightful way to enjoy pasta. Join me as I walk you through this easy-to-make recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 300g pasta (fusilli or penne)

– 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)

– 150g feta cheese (crumbled)

Flavor Enhancers

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic (finely minced)

– 1 teaspoon chili flakes

Seasonal Touches

– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional Ingredients

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

I love using fresh ingredients that make this dish pop. The pasta serves as a hearty base, while the spinach and feta bring bright flavors. The olive oil adds richness, and garlic gives a warm aroma. I use chili flakes to give it a little kick, but you can adjust that.

The fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish and make it feel light. Basil not only looks nice but adds a fragrant touch when you serve it.

Optional ingredients like toasted pine nuts add a nice crunch. If you want more flavor, don’t skip the salt and pepper. Each component works together to create a simple yet tasty meal. For the full recipe, check out the Spinach & Feta Fiesta Pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Bring salted water to a rolling boil.

– Add 300g of pasta and cook until al dente.

– Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.

Sautéing the Base

– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet.

– Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes.

– Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Incorporating Spinach

– Add 2 cups of chopped spinach to the skillet.

– Cook until just wilted, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

– Stir frequently for even cooking.

Mixing Ingredients

– Combine the drained pasta with the spinach in the skillet.

– Fold in 150g of crumbled feta, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.

– Adjust creaminess with reserved pasta water to your liking.

Final Seasoning

– Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper.

– Add toasted pine nuts if you like some crunch.

Presentation

– Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

– You can add more feta and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Follow the [Full Recipe] for more details and tips!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Use high-quality olive oil for better flavor.

– Adjust chili flakes according to spice preference.

Using good olive oil makes a big difference. It adds richness to the dish. If you like spice, add more chili flakes. If you prefer mild, use less.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture.

– Use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.

If you want a creamier taste, try goat cheese. It melts nicely and adds a smooth flavor. If fresh spinach is hard to find, frozen works too. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water.

Presentation Tips

– Serve in wide, shallow bowls for elegance.

– Drizzle with olive oil for added appeal.

For a nice look, serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls. This creates a beautiful plate. A drizzle of olive oil on top makes it shine and adds more flavor. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe.

Variations

Protein Additions

You can boost your meal with protein. For a tasty twist, add grilled chicken or shrimp. Both options give your dish a hearty feel. If you want a vegetarian choice, chickpeas work great too. They add protein and a nice texture to the pasta.

Flavor Enhancements

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. They bring a sweet, tangy taste that pairs well with spinach. You can also toss in olives for a salty kick. They add depth and contrast to the creamy feta.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great flavors and textures. For those who want a dairy-free dish, vegan feta is a smart choice. It melts nicely and adds creaminess, just like regular feta.

For the full recipe, check out the Spinach & Feta Fiesta Pasta section above.

Storage Info

Short-term Storage

To keep your pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to consume them within 3 days for the best flavor. This way, you can enjoy your meal again without losing quality.

Long-term Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze the pasta, but leave out the feta. This helps keep the texture nice. Use the frozen pasta within a month for the best taste and quality.

Reheating Tips

When you’re ready to eat, reheat your pasta in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also use a microwave. Heat in short intervals to warm evenly without drying out the dish. You’ll have a tasty meal in no time!

FAQs

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the base and store separately from pasta. This way, the pasta stays firm and does not get mushy. You can cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat.

How can I enhance the flavor of this dish?

More garlic or herbs can intensify the flavor profile. Try adding fresh basil or oregano for a burst of freshness. You can also add a pinch of black pepper for depth.

What can I serve with Pasta with Spinach and Feta?

A side salad or garlic bread complements the dish well. A light green salad adds crunch and freshness. Garlic bread brings in a warm, comforting touch.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep as it reheats well. Store the pasta and sauce in separate containers. This keeps the flavors fresh and the pasta perfect.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

It’s naturally vegetarian; just ensure your feta is vegetarian-friendly. Some feta brands use animal rennet. Check the label for the best choice.

For the full recipe, check out the Spinach & Feta Fiesta Pasta.

This pasta dish blends fresh spinach and feta for a tasty meal. You learned about essential ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. Remember, you can customize this dish to fit your taste. Add protein or adjust spices as needed. Store leftovers properly to keep flavors fresh. Enjoy creating this simple yet delicious recipe at home. It’s perfect for any occasion, and your taste buds will thank you!

Pasta with Spinach and Feta

Indulge in a delicious Spinach & Feta Fiesta Pasta that's perfect for any meal! Featuring fresh spinach, creamy feta, and zesty lemon, this recipe is quick to make and bursting with flavor. In just 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant dish that's sure to impress. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Click through for the full recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up this delightful fiesta in your kitchen!

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Ingredients

  

300g pasta (such as fusilli or penne)

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

150g feta cheese, crumbled

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust based on your spice preference)

1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional: 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts for added crunch

Instructions

 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Before draining, carefully reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté Flavor Base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and chili flakes, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.

Add Spinach: Fold the chopped spinach into the skillet, cooking it down until just wilted, which should take approximately 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

Combine Ingredients: Introduce the drained pasta to the skillet with the wilted spinach. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese, freshly grated lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together thoroughly, adding the reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess.

Season & Serve: Taste the dish and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If you're using them, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top for an extra layer of texture.

Garnish & Present: Serve your pasta hot, garnished with a handful of fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and aromatic freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant presentation, serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls and top with additional crumbled feta, a few more fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor and visual appeal.