Mediterranean Pasta with Feta Cheese, Spinach, Garlic, and Cherry Tomatoes

A light, flavorful, and easy dish perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients:

1.  8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or any pasta you like)
2.  2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
3.  4 cloves garlic, minced
4.  1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
5.  3 cups fresh spinach (or more, depending on preference
6.  1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
7.  1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
8.  1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
9.  1 tsp dried oregano (or fresh oregano if available)
10.  Salt and black pepper, to taste
11.  1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
12.  1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water (for saucing)
13.  Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for added freshness)

Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
3. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water and set it aside.
4. Drain the pasta and set aside.
5. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
7. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices.
8. Add the spinach to the skillet with the tomatoes and garlic.
9. Stir until the spinach wilts, which should take 2-3 minutes.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes, spinach, and garlic.
11. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the tomato and spinach mixture.
12. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
13. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and olives (if using), then season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
14. For an extra boost of flavor, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon.
15. Give the pasta one final stir and remove from heat.
16. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.
17. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Additional Tips:
1. Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for additional Mediterranean flavor.
2. You can substitute spinach with arugula or kale for a slightly different taste.
3. If you prefer a creamier version, you can add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the mix.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Pasta!