If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful dish that hits all the right notes in under 30 minutes, this Pasta with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender pasta bathed in a garlicky olive oil sauce, brightened by fresh spinach and livened up with tangy feta cheese, all finished with a squeeze of lemon that makes each bite sing. It’s an easy Mediterranean-inspired marvel that balances comfort and freshness, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something wholesome yet exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe’s beauty lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is essential in building layers of flavor and texture that come together effortlessly. From the delicate earthiness of fresh baby spinach to the creamy tang of crumbled feta, everything works harmoniously to create a dish that’s vibrant and satisfying.
- 8 ounces penne or pasta of choice: Choose your favorite type to provide a hearty, comforting base.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps gently sauté the garlic and spinach.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach: Brings a bright green color and tender texture that balances the pasta.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a subtle kick of heat.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Offers creamy, salty tartness that’s essential to the dish.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty depth and a delightful finishing touch.
- Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens and balances the flavors with fresh acidity.
How to Make Pasta with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook 8 ounces of your preferred pasta until al dente—meaning it still has a slight bite so it won’t turn mushy in the next steps. Be sure to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining, as it will prove invaluable later in loosening the sauce for a silkier texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spinach
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook gently for about one minute until fragrant—this step is critical for unlocking that rich, aromatic base. Next, add the fresh baby spinach and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts down and becomes tender, releasing its vibrant green goodness.
Step 3: Season and Combine
Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat. Now, add your cooked pasta right into the skillet, tossing everything together so the flavors meld. Slowly pour in the reserved pasta water a bit at a time—this creates a light sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of pasta without being too heavy.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Lemon Juice
Stir in ½ cup crumbled feta cheese and ¼ cup grated Parmesan, letting the cheeses melt just enough to bind the dish without losing their character. Finally, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the pasta and give it one gentle stir. This final acid touch cuts through the creaminess and lifts the whole plate, resulting in a dish that’s fresh, balanced, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Pasta with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra flakes of red pepper or freshly cracked black pepper on top for a pop of color and flavor. You can also add a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley to bring a lovely crunch and herbaceous note that complements the feta beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider serving it with a crisp Greek salad dressed with lemon and olives or some warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A light cucumber-yogurt dip also pairs nicely, complementing the Mediterranean vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and top with a feta crumbles mosaic and a delicate drizzle of good-quality olive oil. Layer fresh spinach leaves underneath for visual interest or tuck in some grilled lemon slices alongside for an eye-catching citrus twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the spinach will continue softening, and the pasta will absorb some sauce, so it might be a little less crisp but still delicious.
Freezing
Freezing pasta with cheese and spinach can slightly change its texture, often making the spinach a bit watery upon thawing. If you want to freeze this dish, do so in a sealed container for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to bring back creaminess and prevent sticking. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly without drying out the feta cheese.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta is key to the dish’s signature tang, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture. Just be mindful that the flavors will shift slightly, but that’s part of the fun.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Simply swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this pasta with spinach and feta cheese recipe very adaptable.
How can I add protein to this dish?
For a heartier meal, top the pasta with grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or even some sautéed shrimp. These additions complement the Mediterranean flavors without overpowering the freshness.
What’s the best way to prevent the spinach from turning soggy?
Cook the spinach just until it wilts—about 2 to 3 minutes. Overcooking can cause it to release too much water and become mushy, so watch closely during sautéing.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To keep it vegan, substitute the feta and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives or nutritional yeast for cheesiness. Also, check that your pasta has no egg or dairy components.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe is a true go-to that brings Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table any night of the week. Its ease, freshness, and comforting depth make it a staple worth returning to again and again. Give it a try—I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite dishes to cook and share with loved ones.
Print
Pasta with Spinach and Feta Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring tender penne pasta tossed with garlic-sauteed fresh spinach, tangy feta and Parmesan cheeses, and a bright splash of lemon juice. Perfect for a quick vegetarian main course that combines vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces penne or pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese and Seasoning
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook Spinach: Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine Pasta and Greens: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the spinach and garlic.
- Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce, then add the crumbled feta and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir gently until everything is well combined. Serve the pasta warm.
Notes
- For added protein, top the pasta with grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for desired level of spiciness.
