Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish with Spinach feta tomato pasta. This creamy, cheesy pasta creation combines the rich flavors of baked cherry tomatoes and feta cheese with perfectly cooked pasta and fresh spinach. It’s a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.
If you’re a fan of pasta like me, you’ll love experimenting with new recipes. Consider trying my Parmesan Chicken Orzo Skillet, Butternut Squash Lasagna with Spinach, or Skinny Fettuccini Alfredo next time. And don’t forget to add The Ultimate Lasagna Recipe to your menu for a truly satisfying meal.
Table of Contents:
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Author: Siddhanath Metkari
Tools for this recipe:
- Garlic Press
- Wire whisk
- a big pot
- Sharp knife
- bowl
- skillet
- kitchen tongs
- oven
- 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spinach feta tomato pasta recipe video:
Spinach feta tomato pasta ingredients and Instructions:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces of pasta (penne, rigatoni, or any shape you prefer)
- 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat a large baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the pasta following the instructions on the package until it’s “al dente”.Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
- If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta mixture for an extra cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Once finished, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve your oven-baked spinach, feta, and tomato pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious meal.
📊 Nutrition Information (Per 1-Cup Serving):
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 34 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Protein | 8 g |
Fat | 11 g |
Saturated Fat | 4 g |
Sugar | 5 g (natural) |
Sodium | 390 mg |
Potassium | 430 mg |
Vitamin A | 65% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Nutrition values can vary slightly based on ingredients and portion size.
✅ 10 Health Benefits of Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta:
- Boosts Iron Intake
Thanks to spinach, this dish naturally supports energy and oxygen circulation in the body. - Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes and spinach provide lycopene, beta-carotene, and lutein—known for protecting cells from damage. - Supports Eye Health
Spinach is packed with lutein and zeaxanthin, two nutrients that help protect against age-related eye conditions. - Heart-Friendly Fats
Olive oil and feta bring in heart-healthy fats that may support cholesterol balance and blood pressure. - Good Source of Plant-Based Protein
Between pasta and feta, you get a nice protein bump without needing meat. - Promotes Bone Health
Feta adds calcium, and spinach contributes vitamin K—both important for strong bones. - Naturally Lower in Sugar
No hidden sugars here—just the sweetness of fresh tomatoes. - Hydrating & Refreshing
Spinach and tomatoes have a high water content, which helps with hydration and digestion. - Supports Healthy Digestion
The fiber in whole wheat pasta (if used) and veggies helps keep things moving smoothly. - Great Meatless Meal Option
Perfect for vegetarian days without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
🧊 Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It keeps well and is just as tasty cold or at room temperature. - Freezer:
Not recommended. Tomatoes and spinach tend to get soggy after freezing and thawing.
Pro Tip: If meal prepping, keep feta and dressing separate until ready to serve for best texture.
🔁 Reheat & Reuse Instructions:
🌡️ Reheat:
- Skillet:
Add a splash of olive oil or water and warm over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring gently. - Microwave:
Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.
Avoid overheating to preserve feta’s creamy texture and spinach’s freshness.
♻️ Reuse Ideas:
- Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Fill roasted pepper halves with leftover pasta and top with more feta. - Pasta Salad Remix:
Chill it, add cucumbers and olives, and turn it into a refreshing Mediterranean salad. - Veggie Wrap Filling:
Spoon leftovers into a tortilla with fresh greens for a quick wrap. - Egg Bake or Frittata:
Fold into whisked eggs and bake for a flavorful breakfast or brunch. - Next-Day Grain Bowl:
Mix with quinoa or brown rice and top with a drizzle of tahini or lemon vinaigrette.
🥗 Serving Suggestions:
- Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Enjoy with a side of garlic toast or a fresh green salad.
- Squeeze a little lemon on top for a bright finish.
What to pair with this pasta:
- A protein– For protein, consider Grilled Chicken Skewers or Smoked Spatchcock Chicken.
- A salad– Pair your meal with a fresh salad like the Best Italian Chopped Salad or a simple Arugula Caprese Salad.
- Bread– Don’t forget the bread! Chewy French Bread or Soft Brioche Dinner Rolls would be perfect.
- Dessert- Treat yourself to a delightful dessert such as Brown Butter Toffee Cookies or Mint Chip Ice Cream.
Tips for the best pasta:
- Don’t be shy with the tomatoes. Adding extra will give you a more sauce-like consistency. I found that six cups worked perfectly for me. I even used a mix of store-bought and fresh tomatoes from my own garden. (Yes, I’m a proud gardener!)
- No block of feta cheese? No problem. You can easily substitute with crumbled feta. Just pile it up generously in the center of the baking dish. You could even try flavored feta, like tomato basil, which happens to be my favorite.
- Opt for Extra-Virgin olive oil. For the best flavor, use Extra-Virgin olive oil in the sauce. It brings out a true olive taste with a delightful peppery finish, which adds an extra layer of goodness to this recipe.
- Choose your favorite pasta shape. Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, but I recommend sticking with regular pasta instead of alternatives like gluten-free or chickpea. I often mix different shapes, but if the cooking times vary, it’s best to boil them separately. For this recipe, I used two shapes that cooked well together in one pot.
FAQ’s
Q. What is Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta?
Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta is a delightful and refreshing dish that features vibrant spinach, ripe tomatoes, and zesty feta cheese tossed with pasta. Usually prepared with olive oil, garlic, and a mix of herbs, it offers a wonderfully easy yet fulfilling dining experience.
Q. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely, frozen spinach is a great choice for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it and drain it well to get rid of any extra moisture before mixing it into the pasta. On the other hand, using fresh spinach will enhance the dish with a more lively and vibrant taste.
Q. What type of pasta is best for Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta?
You can choose any type of pasta you prefer, but spaghetti, penne, and farfalle are commonly favored. Their shapes are great for capturing the sauce and other ingredients. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Q. Can I add other vegetables to Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta?
You can definitely boost the flavor by adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or olives. Just make sure to sauté or roast the vegetables first before mixing them into the pasta for a tasty twist.
Q. How do I make the sauce for Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta?
The sauce is simple and light. Sauté garlic and tomatoes in olive oil, then add the spinach and let it wilt down. Stir in crumbled feta cheese at the end, letting it melt into the sauce, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or oregano.
Q. Can I make Spinach Feta Tomato Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s recommended to cook the pasta fresh since it might get too mushy when reheated. If you have any leftovers, just place them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll be good for up to 2 days.