Spaghetti with Feta is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and classic pasta comfort. This dish combines the tangy, salty goodness of feta cheese with perfectly cooked spaghetti, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners.
But what makes this dish truly special? Its simplicity, versatility, and bold flavors. Whether you like it classic, baked, or with a spicy kick, there’s a version of spaghetti with feta for everyone.
“I love how this dish brings out the richness of feta in such a simple way. It’s creamy, tangy, and pairs beautifully with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and basil!” – Chef Maria Konstantinos, Greek Cuisine Expert.
Now, let’s dive into the details, starting with what makes this dish so unique.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Spaghetti with Feta
What Makes Spaghetti with Feta Special?
Spaghetti with Feta stands out because of its delicious balance of textures and flavors:
- The soft and chewy spaghetti provides a perfect base.
- The crumbly, slightly creamy feta melts just enough to create a light, tangy sauce.
- Ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes add a Mediterranean touch.
This dish is also highly adaptable. You can make it spicy, vegetarian, or even baked, depending on your taste.
The Origin of Spaghetti with Feta – A Mediterranean Delight
Though feta cheese is most commonly associated with Greek cuisine, this dish has influences from across the Mediterranean. Many Italian and Greek pasta recipes use feta as a primary ingredient, pairing it with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Feta itself has been a staple in Mediterranean diets for over 6,000 years. Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, it has a bold, tangy taste that pairs beautifully with pasta dishes.
“Mediterranean cuisine is all about fresh ingredients, and spaghetti with feta is a perfect example. You don’t need complicated sauces – just simple, high-quality ingredients that speak for themselves.” – Chef Nikos Papadopoulos, Mediterranean Food Specialist.
Why Feta Cheese is a Perfect Match for Pasta
Feta cheese is unique because it doesn’t fully melt like mozzarella or cheddar. Instead, it softens into a creamy, crumbly texture, which coats the spaghetti beautifully.
Here’s why feta works so well in pasta:
✅ It adds a salty, tangy contrast to mild pasta.
✅ It blends well with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
✅ It’s lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a lighter choice.
✅ It pairs well with fresh vegetables and proteins, like chicken or shrimp.
To highlight its importance, let’s take a quick look at the nutritional benefits of feta cheese.
📊 Feta Cheese Nutrition Facts (Per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 265 kcal |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Calcium | 493mg |
| Sodium | 917mg |
Ingredients You Need for the Best Spaghetti with Feta
Choosing the Right Pasta – Spaghetti vs. Other Varieties
When making Spaghetti with Feta, the type of pasta you use matters. Here’s a quick guide:
- Spaghetti – Classic choice, light and pairs well with crumbled feta.
- Linguine – Slightly wider than spaghetti, great for absorbing flavors.
- Penne or Rigatoni – If you love creamy sauces, these are ideal for catching melted feta.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta – Great options for a healthier twist!
No matter which pasta you choose, always cook it al dente (firm to the bite) to keep the texture perfect.
Types of Feta Cheese – Which One Works Best?
Not all feta cheese is the same! Depending on where it’s made, the flavor and texture can vary:
- Greek Feta – Traditional, made from sheep’s milk, and has a rich, tangy taste.
- French Feta – Milder and creamier, perfect for a softer texture.
- Bulgarian Feta – Stronger, saltier, and ideal for bolder flavors.
- Cow’s Milk Feta – Less tangy and creamier, great for beginners.
“For the best Spaghetti with Feta, I always recommend authentic Greek feta it has that classic salty bite and crumbles beautifully over pasta!” – Chef Dimitri Koulis, Greek Cuisine Specialist.
Essential Add-Ons: Tomatoes, Garlic, Olives, and More
To make Spaghetti with Feta even more flavorful, consider these must-have ingredients:
✅ Tomatoes – Fresh or roasted, they add sweetness and balance feta’s saltiness.
✅ Garlic – A staple ingredient that enhances the Mediterranean taste.
✅ Olives – Black or Kalamata olives add a rich, briny flavor.
✅ Olive Oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for the best quality.
✅ Herbs & Spices – Basil, oregano, chili flakes, and black pepper add depth.
Want a healthier twist? Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Classic Spaghetti with Feta Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! This easy, 20-minute recipe is perfect for a quick dinner.
📝 Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 250g (9 oz) |
| Feta Cheese | 100g (3.5 oz), crumbled |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 1 cup, halved |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Black Olives | ½ cup, sliced |
| Fresh Basil | Handful, chopped |
| Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Chili Flakes | ½ tsp (optional) |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
“What I love about this recipe is its simplicity! Just a few ingredients, but the flavors burst in every bite.” – Chef Elena Karamanis.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta – Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and save ½ cup pasta water.
2️⃣ Sauté garlic – Heat olive oil in a pan, add minced garlic, and cook until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add tomatoes & olives – Toss in cherry tomatoes and olives, cooking until tomatoes soften.
4️⃣ Crumble the feta – Lower the heat and add crumbled feta, stirring gently.
5️⃣ Mix with pasta – Add the cooked spaghetti, along with a splash of reserved pasta water, to create a light sauce.
6️⃣ Season & serve – Sprinkle oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with more olive oil and serve hot!
Chef’s Tip: “For an extra creamy texture, mash some feta with a fork and mix it with warm pasta water before adding it to the dish.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Spaghetti with Feta
❌ Overcooking the pasta – Always go for al dente texture.
❌ Using low-quality feta – Stick to authentic Greek feta for the best flavor.
❌ Skipping pasta water – It helps create a silky sauce without heavy cream.
❌ Adding feta too early – Wait until the end so it softens but doesn’t fully melt.
Popular Variations of Spaghetti with Feta
Baked Feta Pasta – The Viral TikTok Sensation
One of the most popular variations of Spaghetti with Feta is Baked Feta Pasta, which took over TikTok for a reason it’s simple, creamy, and absolutely delicious!
📝 Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 250g (9 oz) |
| Feta Cheese | 200g (7 oz), whole block |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 2 cups, halved |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Olive Oil | 3 tbsp |
| Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Chili Flakes | ½ tsp (optional) |
| Fresh Basil | Handful, chopped |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste |
👨🍳 How to Make Baked Feta Pasta
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ Arrange ingredients – Place the feta block in the center of a baking dish, surrounded by cherry tomatoes and garlic.
3️⃣ Drizzle olive oil & season – Pour olive oil over the feta and tomatoes. Sprinkle with oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
4️⃣ Bake for 30 minutes until the feta is soft and tomatoes are roasted.
5️⃣ Mix with pasta – Cook spaghetti, then toss it with the baked feta mixture. Add fresh basil before serving.
“This version is a game-changer! Baking the feta makes it creamy and luxurious, creating the perfect sauce for pasta.” – Chef Maria Kosta.
Spicy Feta Pasta – Adding a Kick to Your Dish
If you love a little heat, try this spicy version! Simply add extra chili flakes, a bit of paprika, and even some diced jalapeños for a bold flavor.
🔥 Extra Ingredients for Spice Lovers
✅ 1 tsp red chili flakes (or more if you dare!)
✅ ½ tsp smoked paprika for depth
✅ ½ a jalapeño, diced for extra heat
Tip: Want it even spicier? Add a drizzle of hot honey or harissa paste!
Greek-Inspired Spaghetti with Feta, Olives, and Herbs
For a more authentic Mediterranean experience, load up your pasta with Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh parsley.
🥗 Extra Ingredients for a Greek Twist
✅ ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
✅ ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
✅ 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Tip: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta for a bright, fresh flavor!
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
Want a dairy-free version? No problem! Swap out traditional feta for a vegan feta alternative, made from tofu or cashew cheese.
🥬 Best Additions for a Vegan Version
✅ Zucchini or eggplant – Adds texture
✅ Nutritional yeast – Gives a cheesy taste
✅ Cashew-based vegan feta – A creamy, plant-based swap
Pairing Spaghetti with Feta with the Right Side Dishes
Now that your Spaghetti with Feta is ready, what should you serve with it? A great meal is all about balance, so let’s explore the best salads, bread, and drinks to complement your dish.
Salads That Complement the Dish
A light, refreshing salad is the perfect contrast to the rich, salty feta. Try these simple options:
🥗 Greek Salad – Cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta.
🥬 Arugula & Lemon Salad – Peppery arugula with lemon dressing.
🌿 Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – Chickpeas, parsley, and lemon vinaigrette.
Tip: Adding a salad balances the meal and adds a fresh, crunchy texture.
Best Bread Choices for an Authentic Mediterranean Experience
Nothing pairs with pasta like warm, crusty bread! Here are some great choices:
🥖 Garlic Bread – Classic, buttery, and full of flavor.
🍞 Pita Bread – Soft and perfect for dipping into leftover sauce.
🥯 Focaccia – Infused with rosemary and olive oil for extra taste.
“I always serve Spaghetti with Feta with a side of warm, olive-oil-drizzled bread perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce!” – Chef Nikos Stavros.
Perfect Wine Pairings for Spaghetti with Feta
Want to enjoy this meal like a true Mediterranean feast? Pair it with the right wine:
🍷 White Wine – Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio (for a crisp, light pairing).
🍷 Rosé – Dry, refreshing, and a great match for feta’s saltiness.
🍷 Light Red Wine – A Pinot Noir or Grenache works beautifully with tomatoes.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Sparkling water with lemon or a fresh mint iced tea pairs well, too!
Health Benefits of Spaghetti with Feta
Nutritional Value of Feta Cheese
Feta cheese isn’t just tasty it’s also packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick look at its health benefits:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 14g | Helps build muscle |
| Calcium | 493mg | Supports strong bones |
| Healthy Fats | 21g | Provides energy |
| Sodium | 917mg | Helps balance fluids (but should be eaten in moderation) |
Feta is lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a lighter choice while still being rich in flavor.
Is Spaghetti with Feta a Healthy Dish?
The answer? It depends on how you make it! Traditional Spaghetti with Feta can be a balanced meal when paired with the right ingredients. Let’s break it down:
✅ Healthy Ingredients:
- Whole wheat spaghetti adds more fiber.
- Olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats.
- Tomatoes and herbs bring vitamins and antioxidants.
❌ Less Healthy Factors:
- Regular white pasta has fewer nutrients than whole wheat.
- Too much feta can add extra sodium and fat.
- Adding too much oil increases calorie count.
Tip: Want to make it healthier? Use whole grain pasta, add more veggies, and control the amount of cheese and oil!
How to Make a Lighter Version Without Sacrificing Flavor
If you’re watching your diet, here are some easy swaps to lighten up your Spaghetti with Feta:
🥦 Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of pasta.
🧀 Choose low-fat feta or reduce the amount.
🍆 Add roasted veggies like eggplant or bell peppers for more nutrients.
🥑 Swap some feta for avocado for creaminess with healthy fats.
Fact: Spaghetti with Feta can be a part of a balanced Mediterranean diet, which is one of the healthiest ways to eat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Still have questions? Here are the most common ones people ask about Spaghetti with Feta.
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes! If you don’t have feta or want to try something different, here are some options:
🧀 Goat cheese – Creamy and tangy, similar to feta.
🧀 Ricotta Salata – A firmer, less salty cheese that crumbles well.
🧀 Parmesan – Adds a nutty, salty flavor (but won’t be as creamy).
Tip: If using a softer cheese, add it at the very end so it doesn’t completely melt.
2. How can I store and reheat Spaghetti with Feta?
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep your dish fresh:
🥶 Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating: Warm it in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
❄️ Freezing: Not recommended feta can become grainy when thawed.
Tip: If you know you’ll have leftovers, keep the feta separate and add it fresh when reheating!
3. What are the best herbs and spices to enhance the flavor?
Want to level up the taste? Try these flavor boosters:
🌿 Fresh basil – Adds a sweet, peppery note.
🌿 Oregano – Brings a classic Mediterranean aroma.
🌶 Chili flakes – Perfect for adding heat.
🍋 Lemon zest – Brightens up the whole dish!
Fact: Fresh herbs make a huge difference always add them at the end for the best flavor!
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you’re avoiding gluten, here’s what to do:
✅ Use gluten-free spaghetti – Made from rice, corn, or quinoa.
✅ Try legume-based pasta – Chickpea or lentil pasta adds extra protein.
✅ Use veggie noodles – Spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash makes a great alternative.
Tip: Many gluten-free pastas cook faster than regular pasta, so check the package instructions!
Final Thoughts
Spaghetti with Feta is an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that you can customize to fit any diet. Whether you prefer the classic version, a spicy kick, or a healthier twist, there’s a way to enjoy it while keeping it nutritious and satisfying.
Now that you’ve got all the tips, tricks, and recipes, why not give it a try tonight? 🍝
Spaghetti with Feta
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 ounces feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and cook until softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in Kalamata olives and red pepper flakes; season with salt and black pepper.
- Toss cooked spaghetti into the skillet, combining thoroughly with the tomato mixture.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired