Quick & Vibrant Pasta with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Crafting a delightful pasta with feta and cherry tomatoes promises a Mediterranean-inspired culinary adventure that sparks joy in your kitchen.

Mediterranean ingredients dance together, creating a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures.

Summers in Greece come alive through this simple yet elegant dish.

Fresh cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, complementing the creamy, tangy feta perfectly.

Herbs and olive oil add depth and complexity to each forkful.

Minimal preparation meets maximum satisfaction in this quick weeknight meal.

Gather your ingredients and let the magic of Mediterranean cooking inspire you to create something extraordinary.

Ingredients for Pasta with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes

• Pasta: A versatile base that provides the main structure and carbohydrate component of the dish.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy tomatoes that burst with flavor when cooked.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds depth and pungent flavor to the dish.
• Spinach: Leafy green that brings nutritional value and a fresh, mild taste.
• Salt, Paprika, Italian Seasoning: Spices and herbs that enhance the overall taste profile of the recipe.

• Olive Oil: Provides richness and helps to create a smooth, glossy texture.
• Feta Cheese: Tangy and creamy cheese that adds a salty and distinctive Mediterranean flavor.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic element that balances and lifts the flavors of the dish.

How to Cook Pasta with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Fill a big pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in the pasta and cook until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.

Carefully drain the pasta in a colander, making sure to save a small cup of pasta water for later use if needed.

Step 2: Sizzle Tomato Mixture

Grab a large skillet and warm up some olive oil over medium heat.

• Cherry tomatoes
• Minced garlic
• Salt
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning

Let the tomatoes dance in the pan for about 2 minutes until they start to burst and release their juicy goodness.

Step 3: Wilt and Blend Greens

Toss in fresh spinach leaves and watch them shrink and soften in the hot skillet.

Crumble feta cheese over the mixture, creating delightful pockets of creamy flavor.

Step 4: Final Toss and Serve

Slide the cooked pasta into the skillet and give everything a good stir.

Splash in some fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Warm everything together for one final minute, adding a drizzle of extra olive oil if the dish seems dry.

Serve hot and enjoy the burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite.

Tips to Make Pasta with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes

• Roast cherry tomatoes in the oven before adding to the skillet for an intense, caramelized taste that elevates the entire dish.
• Add spinach at the very end of cooking to maintain its bright green color and maximum nutritional value.
• Crumble feta at room temperature for smoother melting and more even distribution throughout the pasta.
• Quickly grill chicken, shrimp, or tofu and add to the pasta for a protein-packed meal that suits different dietary needs.
• Adjust lemon juice quantity based on personal preference to create a bright, tangy finish that cuts through the richness of feta.

Flavorful Variations for Pasta with Feta and Tomatoes

• Mediterranean Fusion: Replace feta with crumbled goat cheese and add sliced kalamata olives for a Greek-inspired version.
• Spicy Kick Pasta: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to increase heat levels and add depth to the dish.
• Protein Power Boost: Mix in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy chickpeas to transform the vegetarian recipe into a protein-packed meal.
• Fresh Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh basil, chopped parsley, or oregano just before serving to enhance aromatic qualities and brighten overall flavor profile.

What Complements Pasta with Feta and Tomatoes

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio that complements the tangy feta and bright lemon notes, cutting through the richness of the pasta.
• Serve with Mediterranean Salad: Create a light Greek-style salad with cucumber, olives, and red onions dressed in olive oil and herbs to enhance the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.
• Match with Crusty Bread: Grab a rustic sourdough or ciabatta to soak up the delicious tomato and olive oil sauce, adding textural contrast and extra flavor to the meal.
• Add Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top to bring a vibrant, aromatic finish that elevates the overall taste profile and adds a pop of color.

How to Store Pasta with Feta and Tomatoes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Place pasta in a sealed container and keep in the refrigerator’s main compartment.

Transfer pasta to a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.

Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little olive oil or water to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Freeze cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use various pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.

• Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh herbs, use about 1/3 of the amount in dried herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, use 1 teaspoon dried herbs.

• How can I make this dish more protein-rich?

Add grilled chicken, canned tuna, or cooked shrimp to the pasta. These protein sources will complement the feta and tomatoes nicely.

Reasons to Love Pasta with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes

• Blast Flavor Fast: This recipe delivers a punch of Mediterranean-inspired taste with minimal cooking skills required, making it perfect for beginners or busy home cooks wanting a delicious meal.
• Customize Your Dish: Easily swap ingredients like switching spinach for kale or adding protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to create a personalized dinner that matches your mood and dietary preferences.
• Nutrition in Every Bite: Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs, this pasta provides a balanced meal loaded with vitamins, minerals, and satisfying nutrients that support overall wellness.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup and simple cooking technique mean you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without creating a mountain of dishes, saving precious time after a long day.

Pasta With Feta And Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy Mediterranean Pasta invites flavor lovers on a culinary journey through Greek-inspired comfort. Fresh cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese create a simple yet elegant dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 10 ounces (280 grams) farfalle pasta
• 8 ounces (225 grams) grape tomatoes (red and yellow, halved)
• 6 ounces (170 grams) crumbled feta cheese
• 5 ounces (140 grams) fresh spinach, chopped

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Liquid and Oil:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more if needed)
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Fill a spacious pot with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package guidelines. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Warm olive oil in a generously sized skillet on medium heat. Introduce cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for approximately 2 minutes, allowing tomatoes to soften and release their natural essence.
3. Incorporate fresh spinach leaves into the skillet, stirring until they wilt and become vibrant green. Crumble feta cheese throughout the mixture, creating a creamy texture.
4. Gently fold the cooked pasta into the vegetable medley, ensuring even distribution. Splash with fresh lemon juice and toss to integrate flavors.
5. Reheat the entire dish for an additional minute, adjusting consistency with a drizzle of extra olive oil if needed. Serve immediately while warm and aromatic.

Notes

• For ultra-creamy texture, reserve some pasta water before draining to help sauce cling perfectly to noodles.
• Switch to gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version without compromising delicious flavors.
• Boost protein by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans for a more substantial meal.
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s brightness and add vibrant color contrast.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 370 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg