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
