This Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes recipe is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. It’s the perfect side dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with the fresh, vibrant flavors of spinach and feta. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! This recipe brings together the comfort of mashed potatoes and the zesty, tangy goodness of feta cheese, creating a dish that is both familiar and exciting. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or any time you need a reliable side that will impress.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes

You’ll adore this recipe because it takes the humble mashed potatoes to a whole new level. The creamy texture, coupled with the tangy feta and the freshness of spinach, makes for an unforgettable side dish. Plus, it’s super easy to make and pairs well with just about any main course.

1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy potatoes, garlicky spinach, and tangy feta cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.
2. Nutrient-Packed: Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthier option without compromising on taste.
3. Versatile Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian entrees.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it when ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients For Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes

• 2 pounds red potatoes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, stacked and cut into thin ribbons
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ – 1 cup room temperature or warm milk
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• Zest of 1 lemon, about ½ teaspoon

How to Make Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and cube the red potatoes. Place them in a large saucepan filled with cold water. Ensure there’s enough water to cover the potatoes, then bring it to a boil. Simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 20 minutes.

Cook the Garlic and Spinach

While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a medium frying pan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic along with a pinch or two of salt and pepper. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Toss in the spinach and turn off the heat, adding a couple more pinches of salt and pepper.

Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pan off the heat. Add the butter and ½ cup of milk. Use a potato masher to smash the potatoes, adding more milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Season

Stir in the cooked spinach, crumbled feta, dried dill, and lemon zest. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

• Herb Lovers: Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for a different tangy twist.
• Garlic Overload: Increase the amount of garlic for a more robust flavor.
• Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers for additional texture and flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use a vegan butter substitute and plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Medium frying pan
• Potato peeler
• Potato masher
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing spoon

Storage

Store any leftover Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen them up.

Freezing Tips

To freeze, allow the mashed potatoes to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What to Serve with Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes

These Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes pair beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or a hearty meatloaf. They also make a great addition to a vegetarian meal when served alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Here are a few serving suggestions to complement this dish:

1. Grilled or Roasted Meats: The creamy, tangy potatoes complement the savory flavors of grilled steak, pork chops, or roasted turkey.
2. Vegetarian Delight: Pair with a hearty lentil loaf or a vegetable gratin for a complete vegetarian meal.
3. Holiday Feast: Serve as a unique side dish at your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, alongside traditional favorites like roasted turkey and green bean casserole.
4. Casual Weeknight: Enjoy with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tips

• Potato Type: Red potatoes give a lovely creamy texture, but you can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes as well.
• Consistency Control: Adjust the milk quantity to get your preferred consistency – less for thicker mash, more for creamier.
• Fresh Spinach: If using larger spinach leaves, chop them finely for easier incorporation.
• Feta Tip: Use high-quality feta cheese for the best flavor. You can find it in blocks or pre-crumbled.
• Garlic Prep: Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish.

Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes

FAQ:

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to the potatoes. Frozen spinach can be a convenient option, especially if fresh spinach is not available. Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid making the potatoes watery.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the mashed potatoes as directed, then reheat gently when ready to serve. To keep them creamy, add a splash of milk while reheating and stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

What if I don’t have lemon zest?

You can substitute with a splash of lemon juice for a similar bright flavor. The zest adds a concentrated lemony aroma, but the juice will still give that fresh citrus touch.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute and use plant-based milk, such as almond or soy milk. Ensure that the feta cheese is also a vegan alternative.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese, blue cheese, or even sharp cheddar for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its own distinctive taste to the dish.

Spinach Feta Mashed Potatoes

Yield: 6 servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Spanakopita inspired mashed potatoes with feta, spinach, garlic, dill and lemon.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds red potatoes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• salt and pepper
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach, stacked and cut into thin ribbons
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ - 1 cup room temperature or warm milk
• ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried dill
• the zest of 1 lemon, about ½ teaspoon

Instructions

1. Wash, peel and cube the potatoes placing them in a large saucepan of cold water. Add enough water to cover them and bring to a boil, simmer until fork tender about 20 minutes.
2. Meanwhile heat the oil over medium-low heat in a medium frying pan. Add the garlic and a pinch or two of salt and pepper. Cook until fragrant 2 - 3 minutes.
3. Add the spinach, toss and turn off the heat. Add a couple more pinches of salt and pepper.
4. Once the potatoes are tender drain and add back to the pan, off the heat.
5. Add the butter and ½ cup milk, smash with a potato masher, adding more milk to get the consistency you like.
6. Stir in the spinach, feta, dill and zest. Season well with salt and pepper.

Notes

Approximate Nutrition Information

Per serving:

• 200 calories
• 10g fat
• 25g carbohydrates
• 5g protein
• 3g fiber
• Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1 grams
Amount Per Serving:Unsaturated Fat: 0g

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