When you need a fast, flavorful dinner that feels both light and satisfying, spinach feta pasta is a perfect choice. This dish comes together in just 15 minutes using a handful of ingredients, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. The combination of tender pasta, fresh spinach, creamy feta, and a hint of chili creates a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal you can enjoy any day of the week.
Why We Love This Spinach Feta Pasta Recipe
You’ll find that this spinach feta pasta recipe is not only simple but also packed with bright flavors and great textures. The fresh spinach adds a healthy touch and vibrant color, while the feta cheese brings a tangy creaminess that coats every bite. The subtle heat from chili flakes and the fresh zing of lemon juice perfectly balance the richness. Plus, it requires minimal effort and time, so you don’t have to sacrifice taste when you’re short on time.
Ingredients for Spinach Feta Pasta
To make this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz (220 grams) penne or similar pasta shape
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or sliced
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes, or adjust to your heat preference
- 10 oz (300 grams) fresh spinach, washed
- 7 oz (200 grams) block of feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, add more if desired
- Salt for pasta water and seasoning
These simple ingredients work together to create a fresh, wholesome meal that’s light on your hands but full on taste.
How to Make Spinach Feta Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it reaches an al dente texture—meaning it’s tender but still firm to the bite. Before draining, scoop out about half a cup of the hot pasta water and set it aside; this will help to create a silky sauce later.
Next, heat the olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and chili flakes, stirring them just long enough to release their aroma—around a minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic to keep the flavors fresh.
Gradually add the spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, stirring until each batch wilts down. This process takes a few minutes and helps the spinach retain its vibrant green color while softening perfectly.
Once the spinach has wilted, crumble the block of feta cheese using your hands and add it directly into the skillet. Turn off the heat at this point to avoid melting the feta completely; you want it to stay creamy and slightly chunky.
Now, drain your pasta and add it to the skillet with the spinach and feta mixture. Pour in the lemon juice and about a quarter cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, allowing the pasta to get evenly coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a little more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Finally, taste the dish and adjust with a bit more salt or lemon juice if needed. Your spinach feta pasta is now ready to be served.
How to Serve Spinach Feta Pasta
Serve this pasta straight from the skillet while it’s warm. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for added richness and a silky finish. If you like more heat, sprinkle some extra chili flakes over your serving.
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, freshly grated parmesan cheese pairs beautifully with this dish. You can also add a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish.
This pasta works well as a standalone meal but also complements a simple green salad or warm crusty bread. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner when you want something wholesome without fuss.
Expert Tips for Perfect Spinach Feta Pasta
To make your spinach feta pasta shine every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use fresh spinach when possible for the best color and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely and squeeze out excess water before cooking.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—aim for al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining; this starchy water helps bind the sauce and gives it a creamy consistency without needing extra cream.
- When crumbling the feta, use your hands rather than a knife for uneven, rustic chunks that melt into the spinach beautifully.
- Adjust the chili flakes and lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go to suit your personal preferences.
- If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas work well with this dish without overpowering the fresh flavors.
How to Store Spinach Feta Pasta
If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil and warm gently on the stove or microwave to restore the creamy texture.
Avoid freezing this dish as the spinach and feta can become watery and lose their texture upon thawing. Fresh is always best with this pasta, but proper storage will keep your meal tasty for a few days.
Variations of Spinach Feta Pasta
Feel free to customize this spinach feta pasta recipe to your liking:
- Swap penne for other pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or rigatoni to change the texture.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and umami flavor.
- Stir in toasted nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts for crunch.
- Include fresh herbs like dill, oregano, or basil to enhance the Mediterranean vibe.
- For a creamier version, mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese with the feta.
- To add more vegetables, toss in some roasted red peppers or zucchini slices.
- If you want a vegan take, replace feta with plant-based cheese alternatives and use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Feta Pasta
What kind of pasta works best for spinach feta pasta?
Penne is a popular choice because its shape holds sauce well, but you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as fusilli or rigatoni.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before cooking to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
How spicy is this recipe?
The chili flakes add a gentle heat, but you can adjust the amount to your taste or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the spinach and feta sauce in advance and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to eat.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This dish contains no meat and uses simple vegetarian ingredients, making it a great option for meat-free meals.
What should I serve with spinach feta pasta?
A light salad or garlic bread pairs well to round out the meal without overshadowing the pasta’s fresh flavors.
Spinach Feta Pasta
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wide Skillet
Ingredients
- 8 oz. penne pasta (or similar shape)
- 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced or sliced
- ¼ tsp. chili flakes adjust to taste
- 10 oz. fresh spinach washed
- 7 oz. feta cheese block, crumbled
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice add more if desired
- to taste salt for pasta water and seasoning
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add spinach gradually, stirring until wilted, about a few minutes.
- Turn off the heat and crumble feta into the skillet, mixing gently.
- Add drained pasta, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, adjusting consistency as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or lemon juice as desired. Serve warm.
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