Mediterranean spinach with feta & pine nuts

Mediterranean Spinach with Feta & Pine Nuts combines earthy spinach, creamy feta, and nutty pine nuts, enhanced with lemon zest. This quick dish is perfect as a healthy side or light main course.

21 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion
1 lemon
2 packages spinach
1 tsp salt
1 dash black pepper
1 tbsp pine nuts
3/4 cup feta cheese

Mediterranean Spinach with Feta & Pine Nuts is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings the fresh and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. It combines the earthiness of fresh spinach with the creamy tang of feta cheese and the rich, nutty flavor of pine nuts, all tied together by the bright zest of lemon. This dish is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect healthy side dish or even a light main course.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Zest and juice the lemon. Set aside.
- Thoroughly wash and dry the spinach if it's not pre-washed.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Set aside.

2. Cook the Onions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and starts to lightly brown, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add Spinach:
- Gradually add the spinach to the skillet. It will seem like a lot at first, but it will wilt down as it cooks. Continue to stir the spinach until it is wilted and tender, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Seasoning:
- Once the spinach is wilted, season it with salt and a dash of black pepper.
- Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring well to combine all the flavors.

5. Combine with Pine Nuts and Feta:
- Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts evenly over the spinach mixture.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese, gently stirring to mix everything together until the cheese starts to warm and slightly melt.

6. Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or a light main course.

In just a few simple steps, you've created a delicious and healthy Mediterranean Spinach with Feta & Pine Nuts dish that's sure to impress your family or guests. Its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients make it a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy it fresh and warm, and don't hesitate to get creative with this versatile recipe to suit your personal taste.

Mediterranean spinach with feta & pine nuts FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the spinach with feta and pine nuts?

The total cooking time for Mediterranean Spinach with Feta & Pine Nuts is about 15-20 minutes. This includes approximately 5-7 minutes for sautéing the onions and an additional 3-5 minutes for wilting the spinach.

What can I substitute for pine nuts in this recipe?

If you don't have pine nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture. However, keep in mind that the flavor may slightly vary.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What type of feta cheese is best to use for this recipe?

You can use regular or reduced-fat feta cheese, depending on your dietary preference. A Greek feta made from sheep's milk will add a rich flavor, but any good-quality feta will work well.

How can I tell when the spinach is properly cooked?

The spinach is properly cooked when it is wilted and tender, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes once added to the skillet. It should be bright green and slightly soft but not overcooked.

Tips:

- Use fresh spinach.: Opt for fresh spinach rather than frozen for the best texture and flavor. Frozen spinach can release too much water and become mushy in the dish.

- Toast the pine nuts.: Lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat before adding them to the dish. This enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.

- Adjust seasoning to taste.: Taste the spinach mixture before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed. The right balance of seasoning can make a big difference.

- Serve immediately.: This dish is best served fresh and warm. If you need to reheat it, do so gently to avoid overcooking the spinach.

- Experiment with additions.: Feel free to add other ingredients like garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to customize the dish to your liking.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 9g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 3.87g
Sugar 3.68g
Fat 16g

Mediterranean spinach with feta & pine nuts