Spinach Feta Pasta

Hey there, pasta lovers! Spinach and feta is a match made in heaven, and today we’re bringing that tasty combo to life in this creamy and flavorful pasta dish. This recipe is super easy to make, and trust me, it’ll be a hit with everyone at the dinner table. The creamy feta sauce, combined with the richness of olive oil and the freshness of spinach, makes this dish a true winner. Let’s get cooking!

Method 

Cook the Pasta 

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. While your pasta is cooking, don’t forget to save 1 cup of pasta water before draining the rest. This starchy water will be super helpful for creating a creamy sauce that perfectly coats your pasta later on.

Prepare the Feta Sauce 

While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to whip up that creamy feta sauce. In a food processor, add the feta cheese, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of water, and a few grinds of pepper. Process everything until smooth. This mixture will be thick and creamy, making the base of your pasta sauce. Set it aside while you continue with the rest of the recipe.

Cook the Aromatics 

In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium/low heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and toast them for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning just enough time to bring out their flavor. Next, add the minced onion and garlic to the pan. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Wilt the Spinach 

Now, add the fresh spinach to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir it in, and cook it for a few minutes until the spinach wilts down completely. This should only take about 2-3 minutes, and you’ll notice the spinach shrinking and turning a deep green. Keep stirring to ensure it’s evenly cooked.

Combine Everything 

Once the spinach has wilted, it’s time to bring it all together. Pour the creamy feta mixture into the pan with the spinach, onions, and garlic. Then, add the reserved pasta water. Stir everything together until a creamy, smooth sauce forms. The pasta water will help loosen up the feta mixture and create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly. Taste and season with a pinch of dried dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Add the Pasta 

Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta to the pan. Carefully toss the pasta into the creamy sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated with the feta sauce. To add some freshness and zing, squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the pasta and give it another stir. The acidity from the lemon will balance out the richness of the feta, making every bite burst with flavor.

Garnish and Serve 

For the final touch, serve your pasta warm, and if you want to take it to the next level, sprinkle some crispy breadcrumbs or a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese on top. These add a lovely crunch and extra flavor that makes this dish even more irresistible.

Necessary Tools 

• A large pan for cooking
• Food processor or blender
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Pasta pot

Serving Suggestions 

This Spinach & Feta Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a light side salad for some extra freshness. Try a crisp green salad or a roasted vegetable side dish to balance the creamy pasta. If you’re in the mood for some crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top!

Fun Fact 

Did you know that feta cheese was one of the first cheeses made by humans over 6,000 years ago in Greece? Talk about a classic flavor combo that’s stood the test of time!

Conclusion 

This Spinach & Feta Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and fresh. It’s easy to make, quick to prepare, and always satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the burst of flavor in every bite!