Rich and Creamy Feta Tomato Pasta Recipe

This creamy feta-and-tomato pasta is a satisfying, easy-to-make vegetarian dish that comes together with just five ingredients. Cherry or grape tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while feta cheese creates a luscious, velvety sauce. With the addition of fresh spinach and basil, this meal is both nutritious and full of vibrant flavors.

Tips for the Best Creamy Feta Pasta

• Use pasta water for the sauce: Blending the sauce with reserved pasta water creates a smooth, creamy consistency while helping the feta melt seamlessly.

• Choose the right feta: Cow’s milk feta has a milder flavor, while sheep’s milk feta is stronger and more pungent go with what suits your taste.

• Buy a block of feta: Pre-crumbled feta doesn’t melt as well, so opt for a block and crumble it yourself for the best texture.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti

• 1 (10-ounce) package baby spinach (about 10 cups)

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 cups cherry tomatoes

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground pepper

• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra leaves for garnish

• 1½ cups crumbled feta cheese, divided

Directions

1. Cook the pasta and spinach:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions.

   • In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the spinach. Drain, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.

2. Prepare the tomatoes:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Add cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes soften and begin to burst (about 6 minutes).

   • Transfer ½ cup of the cooked tomatoes to a small bowl.

   • Stir in chopped basil to the remaining tomatoes in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often, until tomatoes break down into a sauce.

3. Make the feta sauce:

   • Transfer the tomato mixture to a blender.

   • Add 1 cup feta cheese and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water.

   • Blend until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute), allowing steam to escape by removing the blender’s center lid piece and covering the opening with a towel.

4. Combine and serve:

   • Return the sauce to the skillet over medium heat.

   • Add the drained pasta and spinach mixture, along with the reserved ½ cup of cooked tomatoes. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.

   • Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of feta and garnish with basil leaves.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Quick & Easy: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make it perfect for weeknights.

• Nutritious: Whole-wheat pasta, spinach, and tomatoes provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

• Rich & Creamy Without Cream: Feta cheese and pasta water create a luxurious texture without heavy cream.

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