Greek Pasta Toss

This Greek Pasta Toss blends Mediterranean favorites like spinach, feta, and Kalamata olives into a comforting and healthy meal. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something flavorful without fuss. The balance of savory turkey sausage and fresh ingredients delivers a satisfying dish that's also Weight Watchers friendly.

I made this the first time on a hectic evening and was surprised how warmly it was received. Now it's a regular request when I want something simple but special.

Ingredients

• Three cups uncooked whole wheat or smart spiral pasta: spirals hold all the ingredients beautifully choose whole wheat for nutrition or smart pasta for quicker cooking and good fiber
• Three quarters pound Italian turkey or chicken sausage links: lean protein that adds great flavor remove casings for best texture
• Two garlic cloves minced: essential for deep flavor fresh is best
• Five ounces fresh baby spinach: tender and easy to meld into the pasta baby spinach works better than regular for texture
• Half a cup pitted Kalamata black olives: bring briny richness pitted saves time and fuss while eating
• One third cup julienned oil packed sun dried tomatoes drained but with some oil retained: provides chewy sweetness and a boost of Mediterranean flavor
• Quarter cup crumbled light feta cheese: tangy and creamy without too much fat adds signature Greek flair

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage:

In a large skillet cook the sausage over medium high heat Let it cook until no longer pink inside which usually takes about four to six minutes Remove the sausage from the pan Slice it into one inch circles to add back into the pasta later

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until just al dente This means it should still have a slight firmness to the bite Drain the pasta and return it to the pot off the heat

Combine the Ingredients:

Place the pot with pasta back on the stovetop on low heat Add minced garlic fresh baby spinach pitted Kalamata olives and the chopped sun dried tomatoes Stir well to combine with the pasta and sausage Allow the spinach to wilt gently from the residual heat This usually takes about two to three minutes

Finish with Feta:

Remove the pot from the heat Stir in the crumbled feta cheese carefully so it melts slightly but does not become grainy Serve the pasta toss hot and if you like add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before serving

The Kalamata olives are my favorite part of this dish Their bold salty flavor cuts through the richness of the sausage and creaminess of the feta I remember making this for a family gathering where even the picky eaters kept coming back for more declaring it a new favorite.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator It will keep well for up to three days To reheat warm gently in a skillet or microwave until just heated through to avoid overcooking the pasta This dish also freezes well for up to three months thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Italian turkey sausage is not available you can use chicken sausage or even shrimp for a lighter alternative For pasta any spiral shaped pasta like rotini or fusilli work best because they catch the flavors well but penne or bowtie can be used as substitutes Fresh spinach can be swapped with frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained Kalamata olives can be replaced with other black olives though the flavor will change slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the Greek Pasta Toss with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for a more filling meal It also pairs wonderfully with simple roasted vegetables like carrots or a crisp cucumber salad for freshness A light sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a small salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complement this dish beautifully.

This Greek Pasta Toss is quick to make and full of Mediterranean flavor. It makes a reliable weeknight favorite.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What pasta types work best for this dish?

Spiral shapes like fusilli or rotini hold the mix-ins well and maintain texture when tossed with ingredients.

→ Can I substitute the sausage with other proteins?

Yes, chicken breast or shrimp can be used as alternatives, maintaining the dish’s savory balance.

→ How should I cook the spinach for best texture?

Add fresh spinach last and stir it in just until wilted to preserve its color and tenderness.

→ Is it necessary to keep the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, a bit of the oil helps bind the ingredients and adds depth of flavor to the dish.

→ How can I add some spice to this pasta toss?

Add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing sausage or sprinkle at the end to adjust heat level.