If you’re looking for a dish that merges comfort with a Mediterranean flair, look no further than Spanakopita Pasta, affectionately known as Spanakopasta! This delightful fusion captures the essence of traditional Greek spanakopita—creamy spinach and feta encased in flaky pastry—while transforming it into a satisfying pasta dish.
Moreover, the ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. By combining classic ingredients, this innovative meal offers a unique twist that will surely impress both family and friends. Dive into this deliciously cheesy journey that brings the flavors of Greece right to your plate!
What is Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!)?
Spanakopita Pasta, affectionately dubbed Spanakopasta, is a delightful fusion dish that brings the iconic Greek spinach pie flavors straight to your plate—yet in a quick and convenient pasta format. This enticing recipe usually features smooth pasta, rich feta cheese, and a generous helping of sautéed spinach, encapsulating the essence of traditional spanakopita.
The beauty of Spanakopita Pasta lies in its versatility. You can experiment by adding ingredients like garlic and onion for depth or even mix in some artichokes for an extra punch. If you’re looking for a creamy pasta experience, consider trying a Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta alongside for a fun twist! Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with a salad, Spanakopita Pasta delivers a healthy meal option without compromising on flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish has the potential to become a new family favorite, blending rich cultural tastes with modern culinary convenience.
Ingredients for Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!):
To create a delicious Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!), gather the following ingredients:
- 8 oz. spaghetti or your choice of pasta shape (regular or whole wheat)
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided into 2 + 2 tablespoons)
- 3 green onions (thinly sliced, using both white and green parts)
- 12-16 oz. frozen spinach or fresh spinach (see notes)
- 2 eggs
- 6 oz. feta cheese (crumbled)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill or other herbs (such as mint, oregano, or parsley)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice and zest of one lemon
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Extra-virgin olive oil (for serving, optional)
- Extra herbs (for garnish, optional)
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is not only easy to prepare but packed with flavors. Enjoy a unique twist on traditional spanakopita with this delightful pasta recipe. If you’re looking for more pasta inspiration, try out Baked Feta Pasta for a cheesy treat!
How to prepare Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!):
To make your Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!) a delightful meal, start by cooking 8 oz. of your chosen pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 3 sliced green onions and sauté until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Next, incorporate 12-16 oz. of frozen spinach or fresh spinach, stirring until wilted.
In a separate bowl, whisk 2 eggs, then mix in 6 oz. of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of fresh chopped dill, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, lemon juice, and zest. Combine the drained pasta with the spinach mixture, then fold in the egg and cheese blend. Transfer everything into the skillet, cooking gently until the eggs set. For an extra touch, drizzle with olive oil and top with more herbs if desired. Enjoy this twist on a classic Greek dish, and for another flavorful recipe, check out this baked feta pasta. For additional tips, visit this helpful article.
Tips for Perfecting Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!):
To create a delightful Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!), start by selecting fresh spinach as your main ingredient. Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and flavor. Sauté it with garlic and onion for a savory base that mirrors traditional spanakopita. For a creamy texture, consider adding a touch of ricotta or feta cheese; this gives the dish a rich taste reminiscent of its Greek counterpart.
Using high-quality olive oil enhances the overall flavor. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness from the cheese. For some added inspiration, check out this Creamy Green Goddess Pasta for an innovative pasta twist that incorporates fresh herbs and creamy textures.
Finally, serve your Spanakopita Pasta with a sprinkle of dill or parsley on top. This aromatic herb not only adds color but complements the flavors beautifully, ensuring a delicious and visually appealing dish.
Serving Suggestions:
Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!) is a delightful twist on the traditional Greek dish, bursting with rich flavors and a tantalizing crunchy texture. To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad. A light creamy pasta salad complements the savory notes and adds a vibrant balance to your meal. You can also serve this delectable pasta alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein. The combination creates an enticing plate that is both hearty and wholesome.
For a complete Mediterranean feast, you might want to include baked feta pasta as another side option. The creamy cheese melds beautifully, enhancing your Greek-inspired meal. Don’t forget crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce, as well as a glass of crisp white wine to enrich those flavors. This versatile dish works well for family dinners or intimate gatherings, making Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!) a show-stopping addition to your recipe repertoire.
Storage tips for Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!):
To keep your Spanakopita Pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Once frozen, it stays delicious for about a month. For additional pasta inspiration, check out this Creamy Green Goddess Pasta recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!)?
Spanakopita Pasta, affectionately dubbed spanakopasta, is a delightful fusion of traditional Greek spanakopita flavors and comforting pasta. Featuring tender pasta intertwined with a creamy spinach and feta mixture, this dish is an easy way to enjoy the classic Greek pie’s vibrant taste in a new format.
How can I store leftovers of Spanakopita Pasta?
To store leftover spanakopasta, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Can I make Spanakopita Pasta vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply replace the traditional feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and use olive oil in place of any dairy-based fat in the recipe.
What ingredients are essential for Spanakopita Pasta?
The essential ingredients for Spanakopita Pasta include pasta, fresh spinach, feta cheese, onions, garlic, and herbs like dill or parsley. These elements work harmoniously to replicate the spanakopita’s beloved flavors.
Can Spanakopita Pasta be frozen?
Yes, spanakopasta can be frozen! After cooking, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’s best enjoyed within two months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven or microwave.
What dishes pair well with Spanakopita Pasta?
For a complete meal, consider serving your spanakopita pasta alongside a fresh Greek salad or a light, creamy pasta salad. A flavorful option like Creamy Green Goddess Pasta can also complement the dish beautifully, bringing out fresh flavors.
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Spanakopita Pasta (Spanakopasta!) – Savor Every Bite!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Spanakopita Pasta, or Spanakopasta, is a delightful fusion of traditional Greek flavors and comforting pasta. This dish features tender spaghetti tossed with spinach, feta, and fresh herbs, all baked to perfection.
Ingredients
8 oz. spaghetti or any other pasta shape
regular or whole wheat
4 tablespoons butter divided
3 green onions white and green parts
thinly sliced
12–16 oz. frozen spinach or fresh- see notes
2 eggs
6 oz. feta cheese crumbled
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill and/or other herbs
such as mint
oregano
or parsley
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
juice and zest of one lemon
kosher salt
extra-virgin olive oil and extra herbs for serving
optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then sauté the green onions until fragrant.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (if using fresh) or heated through (if using frozen), then remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, feta cheese, dill, black pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the spinach mixture and egg mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and dot with the remaining butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
- Let it cool slightly before serving and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and additional herbs, if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can use fresh spinach, which will require a quick cooking time to wilt. Adjust the amount of salt based on the saltiness of your feta cheese.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
Keywords: Spanakopita Pasta, Spanakopasta, Greek, Pasta Recipes, Spinach, Feta, Baked Pasta