Pasta with Spinach Sauce
This Pasta with Spinach Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together creamy flavors and nutritious greens in a quick and easy recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this pasta can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families and anyone looking for a tasty meal without the fuss. With its rich taste and vibrant color, it’s sure to impress at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings.
- Creamy Delight: The cream cheese creates a smooth, rich sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Nutritious Spinach: Packed with vitamins, the spinach not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use any type of pasta you have on hand, from penne to spaghetti.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even picky eaters with its delectable taste.
Tools and Preparation
For making this delicious Pasta with Spinach Sauce, having the right tools can make all the difference. Below are some essential tools needed for preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly until al dente.
- Skillet: Used for sautéing garlic and spinach, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
- Measuring cups: Ensures precise quantities of ingredients for consistent results.
Ingredients
This simple pasta with spinach is fast, easy and delicious. It’s ready in less than 15 minutes and makes a weeknight meal the whole family will love: creamy, packed with spinach, and convenient. Recipe yields 4 medium-sized servings.
Pasta
- 8oz (225 grams) pasta (penne, rigatoni, spaghetti…)
Sauce Base
- 1 Tbsp olive oil or extra virgin olive oil, plus more to serve
- 2-3 garlic cloves, finely sliced or minced
- 9oz (250 grams) baby spinach, washed
Seasonings
- ¼ tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
- 5oz (140 grams) cream cheese
Finishing Touches
- 1oz (30 grams) freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, or ⅓ of freshly grated nutmeg, or according to taste
- black pepper, to taste
How to Make Pasta with Spinach Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook your pasta until al dente following the package directions. Before draining, reserve at least 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 or 2 minutes until fragrant (make sure you don’t burn it).
Step 3: Add Spinach
Add part of the spinach and season with salt. Stir until wilted adding handfuls of spinach at a time until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
When the spinach is wilted but still bright green, stir in cream cheese and 1/3 cup of reserved pasta cooking water. Save the rest in case you need to loosen the sauce when you add pasta to the skillet.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Then add grated parmesan cheese and nutmeg to the sauce and give a good stir. The sauce will be ready in a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Drain pasta; add it to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, black pepper, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
How to Serve Pasta with Spinach Sauce
Serving Pasta with Spinach Sauce can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. Here are some enjoyable ways to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing side.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the sauce beautifully.
Add Protein
- Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken adds a hearty element to the dish.
- Shrimp: Sautéed shrimp can elevate your pasta with a touch of elegance.
Enhance with Extra Ingredients
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor and color.
- Olives: A handful of olives can give a nice salty contrast to the creaminess.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds brightness and freshness.
- Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley enhances presentation and flavor.
Finish with Extra Cheese
- Feta Crumbles: A sprinkle of feta cheese adds tanginess.
- More Parmesan: Always a classic choice for added richness.
How to Perfect Pasta with Spinach Sauce
Perfecting your Pasta with Spinach Sauce is about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips for an amazing dish.
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach has a better texture and flavor compared to frozen options.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps thicken your sauce and adjust its consistency.
- Don’t Overcook Garlic: Cooking garlic just until fragrant prevents bitterness in your sauce.
- Stir Frequently: Keep stirring the spinach mixture to ensure even cooking and avoid sticking.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt, pepper, and nutmeg according to your preference for the best flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoying the pasta right after cooking ensures it’s at its freshest and creamiest.
Best Side Dishes for Pasta with Spinach Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Pasta with Spinach Sauce can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up leftover sauce; simply toast slices of bread topped with garlic butter.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition—try zucchini or bell peppers.
- Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an appealing appetizer.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes can provide a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Risotto Balls (Arancini): These crispy delights offer a satisfying crunch alongside your soft pasta.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms will impress guests while complementing the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making pasta with spinach sauce, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Avoiding these will ensure a delicious outcome.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can lead to a mushy texture. Follow package instructions carefully and taste test for the perfect bite.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta cooking water means missing out on a creamy sauce. This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together beautifully.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic adds flavor but can burn quickly. Keep an eye on it while sautéing; cook just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Not Properly Seasoning: Skipping salt can make your dish bland. Season at every stage, especially when adding spinach and before serving.
- Adding Spinach All at Once: Adding too much spinach at once can lead to uneven wilting. Add it gradually, allowing each handful to wilt down before adding more.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The pasta with spinach sauce will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pasta with Spinach Sauce
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning for easier thawing and reheating later.
Reheating Pasta with Spinach Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through. Use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding this recipe that may help you master your pasta with spinach sauce.
What type of pasta works best for Pasta with Spinach Sauce?
Any pasta shape works well! Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti are great choices, but feel free to use your favorite type.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Frozen spinach is convenient and saves prep time. Just thaw and drain excess water before using it in the recipe.
How can I make this Pasta with Spinach Sauce healthier?
Consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta. You can also reduce cream cheese or substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
What other ingredients can I add to Pasta with Spinach Sauce?
Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Grilled chicken or shrimp also pairs well for added protein.
Final Thoughts
This pasta with spinach sauce is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. It makes a comforting weeknight meal that you can customize according to your tastes. Whether you prefer extra veggies or a protein boost, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Pasta with Spinach Sauce
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Pasta with Spinach Sauce is a quick and creamy dish that combines the delightful taste of fresh spinach with rich cream cheese, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Ready in just under 15 minutes, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also loaded with nutrients, ensuring a wholesome meal for everyone at the table. Perfectly versatile, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, from penne to spaghetti.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2–3 garlic cloves
- 9 oz baby spinach
- 5 oz cream cheese
- 1 oz grated parmesan cheese
- Nutmeg and salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; reserve ½ cup cooking water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Gradually add spinach and salt, stirring until wilted.
- Stir in cream cheese and reserved pasta water until smooth; add parmesan and nutmeg.
- Combine drained pasta with the sauce, tossing well before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
