Skip to main content

Acini de Pepe with Spinach and Feta

4.2

(35)

Image may contain Plant Bowl Food Produce Cutlery Spoon Vegetable Bean and Lentil
Acini de Pepe with Spinach and Feta

Acini di pepe, the Italian term for "peppercorns," also refers to tiny pearls of pasta. This dish goes well with lamb chops or grilled chicken.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    20 min

  • Yield

    Makes 6 side-dish servings

Ingredients

1/2 lb acini di pepe or orzo (1 1/4 cups)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced (1 tablespoon)
1/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes
3 scallions, chopped
1 (10-oz) package chopped frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 cup crumbled feta (3 oz; preferably French)
Accompaniment: lemon wedges

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook pasta in a 4- to 6-quart pot of boiling salted water , uncovered, stirring occasionally, until al dente, then drain well in a coarse-mesh sieve. Transfer to a bowl and keep warm, covered.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, heat oil and butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté garlic, red pepper flakes, and scallions, stirring occasionally, until garlic is golden, about 2 minutes. Add spinach and cook, stirring, until heated through, about 4 minutes.

    Step 3

    Toss pasta with spinach mixture and feta until combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Read More
Like “absolutely decadent” chocolate pudding and fattoush salad.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Like spicy carrot rigatoni and weeknight-fancy ravioli with peas.
For Derby Day indulgence or a post-Thanksgiving lunch, this Kentucky favorite can’t be beat.
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
Like lemony risotto and tandoori-style cauliflower.