Mediterranean Pasta with Feta Cheese, Spinach, Garlic, and Cherry Tomatoes Ingredients:

#### **Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

2. **Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes:**
– While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
– Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. If you prefer your tomatoes to be more caramelized, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes.

3. **Add the Spinach:**
– Once the tomatoes have softened, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir occasionally, allowing the spinach to wilt and reduce in size. This should only take about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

4. **Combine the Pasta and Sauce:**
– Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomato-spinach mixture. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the vegetables and oil. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a silky sauce.

5. **Add the Feta Cheese:**
– Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese. The heat from the pasta and vegetables will slightly melt the feta, creating a creamy and tangy flavor throughout the dish. If desired, you can also add freshly chopped basil for a burst of fresh flavor.

6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the Mediterranean pasta immediately, garnished with extra feta, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair the dish with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing Mediterranean salad for a complete meal.

### Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Pasta with Feta Cheese, Spinach, Garlic, and Cherry Tomatoes

– **Use Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients:** For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality tomatoes and spinach. If you have access to seasonal produce, take advantage of the local fruits and vegetables available to you.
– **Customize the Pasta:** While whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrition, you can also use gluten-free pasta or regular pasta if preferred. The key is to choose a pasta that holds up well with the sauce.
– **Adjust the Spice Level:** If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pasta. Conversely, if you like a milder flavor, skip the red pepper flakes altogether.
– **Add Protein:** For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the pasta. These options will boost the protein content and make the dish more filling.
– **Make It Vegan:** To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese and replace it with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan feta or cashew cheese. You can also add more roasted vegetables to enhance the flavor.

### Health Benefits of Mediterranean Pasta with Feta Cheese, Spinach, Garlic, and Cherry Tomatoes

This Mediterranean pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of some of the health benefits of the key ingredients:

– **Whole Wheat Pasta:** Provides fiber, which aids digestion, supports heart health, and keeps you feeling full for longer.
– **Spinach:** Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is an excellent source of antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
– **Feta Cheese:** Feta is a lower-fat cheese compared to others and is rich in calcium and protein, which support bone health and muscle function.
– **Garlic:** Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, garlic helps boost the immune system, reduce blood pressure, and improve heart health.
– **Cherry Tomatoes:** A great source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, cherry tomatoes have antioxidant properties that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

### Conclusion

Mediterranean pasta with feta cheese, spinach, garlic, and cherry tomatoes is a delightful and nutritious dish that embodies the simplicity and bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. With its perfect combination of savory, tangy, and fresh ingredients, this pasta dish offers a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home!