Spinach & Feta Pasta

This spinach and feta pasta is a quick, simple, and fun twist on spanakorizo!  

You’re going to love my quick, weeknight spinach and feta pasta. It’s an easy and flavorful pasta dish inspired by spanakorizo, the classic Greek spinach and rice dish. But instead of rice, we’re using pasta to create a comforting, cheesy meal that comes together in no time! Tender spinach, garlic, and aromatic dill pair beautifully with tangy feta and a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness. Serve it as a satisfying main course or a delicious side!

If you love spanakorizo, you’re going to love this pasta dish. It has so much luscious spinach that melts in your mouth, and the warm pockets of creamy feta are always a pleasant surprise. You can serve it as a main course or as a side dish to chicken, fish, or beef. It comes together in under 20 minutes, so getting this healthy and delicious meal on the table is even faster than takeout!

Why will I make this over take-out?

Tender, meaty pasta with

Creamy warm feta and

Garlicky, oniony, bright,

Fresh, lemony,

Melt in your mouth herb spinach!

What do I need to make spinach and feta pasta?

Spinach leaves -It may seem like a lot of spinach, but it tastes better with more spinach, and it wilts down about 75% or more.

Olive oil -there are just a few ingredients in this dish, so use a delicious flavored olive oil to add to the overall richness.

Onion -finely chopped so it’s not chunky in the wilted spinach.

Garlic cloves -grated or minced to melt into the spinach.

Mini pasta shells -Use any pasta shape you love! Mini shells, fusilli, or orzo work great.

Salt & freshly cracked black pepper -use these to season as you go to build the flavors.

Dried dill -I always have this in my spice rack, but it’s even better if you have fresh dill.

Kefalograviera -or Parmesan cheese grated is measured with your heart, but you can leave it out and just use the feta if you prefer.

Feta cheese -I crumble this right into the dish from a block, preferably sheep’s milk feta.

Juice of a fresh lemon -brightens and freshens to lighten everything up.

How do I prepare the spinach?

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and dried dill.

How do I cook the pasta?

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

How do I pull the dish together?

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the spinach mixture. Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce. Then, add grated kefalograviera or Parmesan cheese and crumbled feta and toss everything together. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.

Do you have any tips on how to make it my own?

·  For a richer flavor, stir in a knob of butter before serving.

·  Make it extra creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt.

·  Want more protein? Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.

·  Love spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

What’s the best way to serve spinach & feta pasta?

The kids love it when I serve this savory pasta as a main course with toasted bread or my Lagana Flatbread Filled with Olives, Sun-dried Tomatoes, & Herbs. But you can still get dinner on the table quickly, serving this as a side. Try  The Best Mediterranean Air Fryer Chicken, Harissa Barbeque Chicken, and Lemon-Honey Skillet Chicken Drumsticks!

Do you have more spinach and feta pasta dishes?

Spinach & Feta Pastitsio (vegetarian)

30 Minute Spinach, Feta, & Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Tortellini Soup with Spinach, Feta, & Chicken. Ready in 30 Mins!!

Tortellini in a Spinach & Feta Sauce: Ready in 20 Minutes!

Greek Style Mac & Cheese Casserole With Spinach & Feta Cheese

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