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Spinach and Feta Pasta

15-Minute Spinach and Feta Pasta for Busy Weeknights

This 15-Minute Spinach and Feta Pasta is a quick and delicious vegetarian dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can replace with any light, neutral oil.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced or sliced; adjust based on your taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon Chili Flakes Omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
For the Vegetables
  • 10 oz Spinach Fresh is best, but thawed frozen spinach can work.
For the Creaminess
  • 7 oz Feta Cheese Choose a block for the best flavor and consistency.
For Brightness
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Fresh lemon is ideal for maximum zestiness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of cooking water before draining, then drain the pasta.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chili flakes, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
  3. Gradually add fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted down, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Crumble feta cheese into the skillet and turn off the heat, stirring gently to combine until creamy.
  5. Add drained pasta, reserved pasta water, and lemon juice. Toss together for about a minute until well coated and creamy.
  6. Serve the pasta warm, drizzled with extra olive oil and topped with additional chili flakes or grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Use fresh, high-quality feta for the best flavor. Adjust garlic, chili flakes, and lemon juice to your taste. Always reserve pasta water for creaminess.

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