Imagine a pasta salad so creamy, so irresistibly tangy, that it transforms your ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. This Creamy Whipped Feta Pasta Salad isn't just another side dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, velvety texture of whipped feta with fresh, vibrant ingredients that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is about to become your new culinary obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the whipped feta by combining feta cheese, Greek yogurt, and minced garlic in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, whipped feta mixture, and olive oil. Gently fold together until pasta is evenly coated.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach to the pasta. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While the recipe works with any pasta, shorter shapes like rotini or penne hold the creamy feta sauce best.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Feta Quality Matters: Use a high-quality, fresh feta cheese for the most authentic and creamy texture.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap spinach with arugula or fresh basil for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Room Temperature Serving Tip: Let the salad sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and soften the olive oil.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
