Farfalle Pasta with Feta, Tomatoes, and Spinach

Experience the perfect blend of creamy feta, sweet cherry tomatoes, and nutritious spinach, all tied together with the playful bow-tie shape of farfalle pasta. This recipe is a masterclass in balancing flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for a light and satisfying meal.

Time

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

8 oz (225g) farfalle pasta

2 cups fresh spinach

1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add farfalle pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).

Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Toss in the halved tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

3. Add Spinach

Add spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.

4. Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the vegetables.

If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

5. Add Feta

Turn off the heat and gently mix in the crumbled feta cheese.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve

Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh rosemary for a fragrant touch.

Tips and Variations:

1. Choose the right pasta: Farfalle’s bow-tie shape holds onto the sauce perfectly, but you can also use other short-shaped pasta like penne or fusilli.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the farfalle al dente to preserve its texture and ensure it holds onto the sauce.
3. Add some heat: Spice up the dish with some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
4. Make it a one-pot meal: Cook the pasta, cherry tomatoes, and spinach in the same pot for a convenient and easy meal prep solution.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Top with toasted pine nuts: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor with toasted pine nuts.
2. Serve with a side salad: Pair the dish with a simple green salad or a more substantial grain salad for a well-rounded meal.
3. Use as a meal prep solution: Divide the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and spinach into individual portions for a quick and easy meal prep solution.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

– Calories: 420
– Protein: 20g
– Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sugar: 8g
– Sodium: 350mg