Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish featuring tender spinach, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of lemon and garlic. Perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner that’s flavorful and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach (about 5 oz)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Reserved pasta water as needed
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until the spinach is fully wilted.
- Season: Season the sautéed spinach with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine the flavors evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan, and lemon juice. Toss everything together gently.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Add a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help coat the pasta evenly. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately, optionally topped with extra feta or Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- Baby spinach can be used for a more tender texture.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.
- For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
