The Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together the fresh, earthy notes of spinach with the tangy, creamy punch of feta cheese. In just 15 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining. This pasta is not only packed with flavor but also visually appealing, showcasing a lovely contrast of green and white with a hint of chili heat to keep things exciting. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation because it’s straightforward, nutritious, and wonderfully comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe is simple yet essential, combining together to create a perfect balance of texture, taste, and color that will make your tastebuds sing. Let’s break down what you’ll be using and why they matter.
- 8 oz Penne: The tubular pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, giving each bite extra flavor.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently cook the garlic and spinach without overpowering them.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or sliced: Provides a fragrant base that enhances every other ingredient with its aromatic warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes: Brings a subtle kick of heat, which you can adjust to suit your spice preference.
- 10 oz spinach, washed: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a healthy dose of greens, wilting down perfectly in the pan.
- 7 oz block of feta: Crumbled feta lends a tangy, creamy texture that melts slightly when mixed, tying everything together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and lifts the flavors, making the dish feel fresh and lively.
How to Make Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a bite. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining; this starchy liquid is like liquid gold for finishing your dish with a silky sauce.
Step 2: Cook the spinach
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and chili flakes, cooking just until fragrant—this takes about a minute and releases their wonderful aromas. Then add the spinach little by little, stirring continuously until it wilts down completely. This gentle cooking process preserves the spinach’s vibrant color and fresh taste.
Step 3: Add the feta cheese
Turn off the heat and crumble the feta directly into the skillet with your hands. The warmth of the pan slightly softens the feta, making it luscious and creamy without completely melting away. This step is key to keeping that distinct tangy texture that makes this Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble the pasta
Drain the cooked pasta and immediately add it to your skillet with the spinach and feta. Pour in the lemon juice along with about a quarter cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until your pasta is beautifully coated in a flavorful, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed to hit that perfect balance.
Step 5: Serve
Dish up your pasta hot and fresh. For extra flair, drizzle a little more olive oil over the top, sprinkle with extra chili flakes if you like a bit more heat, and finish with some freshly grated parmesan if you want to add an extra cheesy touch. This dish shines when served immediately but holds its charm a little while after, too.
How to Serve Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
This pasta is wonderfully versatile when it comes to garnishes. A handful of toasted pine nuts adds great crunch and nutty depth, while a few fresh basil leaves bring herbal freshness that complements the feta’s sharpness beautifully.
Side Dishes
For sides, think simple and clean so you can spotlight the Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread are perfect companions that enhance the meal without stealing the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls or even hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a seasonal touch. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes can also make each plate look like a work of art. Presentation can be both delightful and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spinach and feta maintain their flavors well, and the dish will keep nicely for 2 to 3 days. The pasta might absorb some of the sauce, so you may want to add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible, but feta’s texture can change slightly after thawing. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within one month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, warm the pasta on the stove over medium low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and help everything heat evenly. Microwave reheating works too, but be sure to cover the dish and add some moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well to avoid excess moisture, which can thin out your sauce. The flavor will still be delicious, though fresh spinach does offer a brighter color and texture.
What pasta shapes work best?
Penne is the classic choice for this recipe because its shape holds onto the cheese and spinach perfectly. However, other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will also work beautifully!
How can I make this dish vegan?
You can swap out the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or use crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and nutritional yeast for tang and creaminess. Use olive oil generously to keep the rich texture.
Is this recipe spicy?
The chili flakes add just a touch of heat to brighten the dish, but it’s very mild overall. Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes depending on how much spice you enjoy.
Can I add protein to this Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas work wonderfully if you want to make this meal heartier and more filling without losing the lovely balance of flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about the Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe that makes it a standout addition to any meal plan. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and offers plenty of room for your personal touch. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this recipe promises delicious results every time. Give it a try and you might just find a new favorite go-to pasta dish!
Print
Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Spinach Feta Pasta recipe combining tender penne with garlicky sautéed spinach and tangy feta cheese. This easy 15-minute dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight meal, enhanced with chili flakes for a subtle kick and fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Ingredients
pasta
- 8 oz (220 grams) Penne (or similar pasta shape)
sauce and seasoning
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or sliced
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes, or more to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or more to taste
vegetables and cheese
- 10 oz (300 grams) spinach, washed
- 7 oz (200 grams) block of feta
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the hot pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Cook the spinach: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced or sliced garlic and chili flakes, cooking for about 60 seconds until fragrant. Gradually add the spinach a handful at a time, stirring continuously until all the spinach is wilted, which should take a few minutes.
- Add the feta cheese: Break the block of feta into crumbles using your hands and add it directly to the skillet with the spinach. Turn off the heat to prevent overcooking the cheese.
- Assemble: Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the lemon juice and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined and coated. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with extra salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, additional chili flakes for extra heat, and freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful meal!
Notes
- Make sure to reserve pasta water as it helps to create a creamy sauce without adding cream.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your spice preference.
- Fresh lemon juice adds brightness; add more if desired to balance flavors.
- You can substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard.
- For a richer flavor, top with parmesan cheese, though this is optional.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
