Spaghetti with feta cheese

Feta Cheese Spaghetti - a simple and delicious recipe

In a world full of sophisticated dishes, sometimes the best thing you can do is return to the simple and delicious essences of cooking. Feta cheese spaghetti is a perfect choice for a quick meal, but with a distinct flavor that will delight both family and guests. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the tastiest feta cheese spaghetti, full of flavors and textures.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients

- 250 g spaghetti
- 100 g feta cheese
- 400 g peeled tomatoes (canned)
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh or dried mint, for serving

A short story about the recipe

Feta cheese spaghetti is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a comforting and flavorful meal. Feta, a cheese with a rich history, brings a distinct character to this dish, and the combination with tomatoes and garlic is a true feast for the senses. This recipe is easily adaptable, making it ideal to include in your culinary repertoire.

Step by step: How to prepare feta cheese spaghetti

1. Boil the spaghetti:
Start by bringing water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and let it boil. When the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Prepare the ingredients:
While the spaghetti is boiling, you can take care of the remaining ingredients. Cut the feta cheese into small cubes, and you can chop the peeled tomatoes into smaller pieces. Crush the garlic with the side of a knife and chop it finely. These preparations will help save time and make cooking more efficient.

3. Sauté the garlic:
In a deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and let it sauté for about 1 minute, until it becomes golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as the taste will become bitter.

4. Add the tomatoes:
Put the chopped peeled tomatoes in the skillet, season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

5. Combine the spaghetti with the sauce:
When the spaghetti is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet over the tomato sauce. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add the feta cheese and a little tomato juice from the can to give the spaghetti a nice color and enhance the flavor.

6. Season:
Sprinkle dried thyme and basil, mixing everything for another 2 minutes over the heat, to allow the flavors to blend.

7. Serve:
Divide the spaghetti into two plates. For an extra touch of freshness, you can add a bit of fresh or dried mint on top. This detail will bring a splash of color and a refreshing aroma to your dish.

Useful tips

- Choose feta cheese carefully: A high-quality feta will make a difference in the final dish. You can opt for goat milk feta for a more intense flavor.
- Vary the ingredients: If you want to add more vegetables, you can include olives, bell peppers, or even fresh spinach. These not only enhance the taste but also add nutrients.
- Don't forget about spices: Experimenting with different herbs, such as oregano or parsley, can transform this recipe into a new favorite.
- Serve with a white wine: A perfect combination for this dish would be a dry white wine that complements the flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also full of nutrients. Feta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Olive oil brings healthy fatty acids, essential for a balanced diet. Thus, feta cheese spaghetti is not just a culinary delight but also a healthy choice.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted to any type of pasta you prefer, whether it's penne, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but you can replace feta with a vegan alternative if you want to make it suitable for vegans.

3. How long can I keep leftover spaghetti?
You can keep the spaghetti in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. When reheating, add a little olive oil to prevent drying out.

4. Can I add protein?
If you want a heartier lunch, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp. These can combine excellently with the flavors of the recipe.

Conclusion

Feta cheese spaghetti is a quick, easy-to-make recipe that brings Mediterranean flavor to your kitchen. Consider this recipe as a base and don't hesitate to put your personal touch by experimenting with ingredients and spices. With a little creativity, you can transform a simple dish into a meal favorite. Enjoy your meal!