Pasta with Spinach and Feta

This Pasta with Spinach and Feta is a vibrant and nutritious dish, blending the earthy flavors of spinach with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, inspired by Moroccan culinary traditions. It's a quick and healthy meal that brings a taste of North Africa to your table.

Ingredients

• Whole wheat pasta - 150 grams
• Fresh spinach - 200 grams
• Feta cheese - 100 grams, crumbled
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Pine nuts - 30 grams, toasted (optional)

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the spinach.
5. Add the crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pasta and spinach. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy consistency.
6. If using, sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the pasta before serving for added crunch and flavor.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your healthy Moroccan-inspired pasta dish.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provides antioxidants.
• Feta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, contributing to bone health.

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