Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. Pratolina pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large skillet for cooking spinach and feta mixture
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Pratolina pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
4. Add the crumbled feta cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and combined with the spinach.
5. Add the cooked Pratolina pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the spinach and feta mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- N/A
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pratolina pasta can be substituted with any other type of pasta.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Add pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming too soft and mushy.
- Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces to ensure it melts evenly.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pasta is too dry, add a splash of olive oil or pasta water to loosen it up.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the pasta and spinach to the recommended temperature to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Pratolina pasta is a type of Italian pasta that is similar to penne but with a wider diameter.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish is savory and slightly spicy with a creamy texture from the melted feta cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
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Region: Greek