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Creamy Spinach and Feta Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 21 reviews

This Spinach Feta Pasta is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender penne pasta with a vibrant spinach and feta cheese sauce. Garlic and chili flakes give it a subtle kick, while lemon juice adds freshness. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 oz (220 grams) Penne or similar pasta shape

Spinach and Feta Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced or sliced
  • ¼ teaspoon chili flakes, or more to taste
  • 10 oz (300 grams) fresh spinach, washed*
  • 7 oz (200 grams) block of feta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or more to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook al dente according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the hot pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Cook the spinach: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced or sliced garlic and chili flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 60 seconds. Gradually add the spinach in batches, stirring until it wilts completely, which should take a few minutes.
  3. Add the feta cheese: Using your hands, crumble the block of feta cheese directly into the skillet with the spinach. Turn off the heat to prevent the feta from melting completely, creating a creamy texture.
  4. Assemble the dish: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the spinach and feta mixture. Pour in the lemon juice and ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as desired.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta immediately. Optionally, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle additional chili flakes for heat, and grate fresh Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Enjoy your vibrant, nutritious meal!

Notes

  • If using frozen spinach, thaw completely, squeeze out excess moisture, and add it when instructed to add the fresh spinach.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level.
  • Reserve pasta water is key to help create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of umami but is optional.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/creamy-spinach-and-feta-pasta-recipe/