This simple yet super flavorful Mediterranean pasta recipe was a staple in my house growing up. Over the years, we’ve tweaked it a few times to make it absolutely perfect and I’m so excited to be sharing it with you today! While most people wouldn’t necessarily consider a pasta with cheese recipe “healthy”, this one is actually loaded with nutrients. Take for instance this specific brand (Les Moulins Mahjoub) of sun-dried tomatoes that are made by slowly drying in the sun (not an oven like most brands) at the Mahoub family farm in Tunisia (which is known for it’s rich soil optimal growing conditions). Then you have the toasted pinenuts which are known to increase immunity and fight inflammation. Toss in all that spinach which is high in fiber and antioxidants and you can see how this dish is actually a great healthy yet satisfying meal option!
I either make this recipe with penne noodles or bucatini (as shown in these photos) but regardless, I always use this brand (Pastificio Gentile) of pasta. Even though it’s dried it somehow tastes incredibly fresh when you cook it which I love. I thought I was crazy at first because of how fresh it tasted but then read that this brand uses a low temperature drying method called Cirillo which preserves the distinct aroma and texture giving it that homemade, fresh pasta feeling. I really recommend getting this brand of sun-dried tomatoes and this brand of pasta as they make such a difference in the taste of this recipe due to their minimal ingredients and drying processes. I can’t wait for y’all to make this recipe – you’re going to love it!
Simple Mediterranean Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb bucatini (this is my favorite as it tastes super fresh)
- 1 7oz. jar sun-dried tomatoes (these are my favorite as the ingredients are super clean yet flavorful)
- ½ cup chopped spinach
- ¼ cup feta cheese
- ¼ cup pinenuts
Instructions
- In medium skillet, heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat. Add pine nuts and toast 2-3 minutes on each side until they smell nutty and are golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook pasta according to the packages instructions. While pasta is cooking, combine sun-dried tomatoes and spinach in food processor and chop until pesto consistency has formed.
- Strain pasta and toss with sun-dried tomato mixture. Top with feta cheese and toasted pine nuts. Enjoy!
Notes
- medium skillet
- measuring cup
- large pot
- strainer
- food processor
PIN FOR LATER:
