Introduction
Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan is a dish that never fails to impress with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. If you’re looking for a delicious Spinach Parmesan Pasta recipe, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of pasta, exploring the simplicity and flavor of this beloved dish.
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. So, let’s get started and explore the magic of Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan.
From the fresh spinach to the nutty Parmesan cheese, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a new recipe to try, this Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spinach Parmesan Pasta recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy sauces and the convenience of a one-pot meal. The creamy texture comes from the perfect blend of heavy cream and melted mozzarella cheese, while the fresh spinach adds a burst of nutrients and flavor.
The ease of preparation and cooking time make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Simply cook the pasta, sauté the garlic and spinach, and combine everything in a baking dish. The result is a golden brown, bubbly masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
The use of fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese gives this dish a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and delicious. So, if you’re looking for a new pasta recipe to add to your repertoire, look no further than this Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan. You can also try our Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta recipe for another delicious option.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup (250g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
When it comes to the ingredients, you can make a few substitutions to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before using. You can also substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, such as almond milk or soy creamer.
The Parmesan cheese is a crucial component of this dish, providing a salty, nutty flavor that complements the spinach perfectly. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly. For more information on cheese, check out our Cheese Charcuterie Board article.
In addition to the ingredients, it’s essential to have the right equipment on hand. You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a baking dish for oven baking, and a skillet for sautéing garlic and spinach.
Equipment Needed
To make this Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Baking dish for oven baking
- Skillet for sautéing garlic and spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add fresh spinach leaves to the garlic and oil mixture, cooking until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta, wilted spinach mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese in a large bowl, tossing to combine.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy. For another delicious pasta dish, try our Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you cook, keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it doesn’t overcook. The al dente texture is crucial for this dish, as it provides a nice contrast to the creamy sauce. When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to burn it, as this can give the dish a bitter flavor.
When combining the pasta, spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese, make sure to toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. This will help the cheese melt evenly and the spinach distribute throughout the dish.
Pro Tips & Tricks
Achieving the perfect creaminess in this Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan is all about balance. You want to use enough heavy cream to create a rich, velvety sauce, but not so much that it becomes too thick. The key is to find that perfect balance between cream and cheese.
To prevent overcooking of pasta and spinach, make sure to check the pasta frequently while it’s cooking. You want to catch it when it’s still al dente, as this will help it retain its texture and flavor. Similarly, when cooking the spinach, stir frequently to prevent it from burning or becoming too wilted.
Enhancing the flavor with additional herbs is a great way to take this dish to the next level. Some options include basil, oregano, or thyme. Simply chop the herbs finely and add them to the pasta mixture before baking.
Storage & Freezing
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked pasta for up to 2 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about the Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan recipe:
- Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
- A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
- Q: What’s the best pasta to use for this recipe?
- A: You can use any type of pasta you like, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli work best.
- Q: Can I add protein to this dish?
- A: Yes, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or pancetta to the pasta mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the pasta mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.
- Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
- A: Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano instead of Parmesan.
- Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
- A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but be sure to check the ingredients of the cheese and pasta to ensure they are vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (serves 4-6):
- Calories: 3600 kcal
- Protein: 120g
- Carbohydrates: 340g
- Fat: 155g
- Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Green Spinach Pasta with Parmesan recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy sauces and the convenience of a one-pot meal. With its simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.
So, go ahead and give this Spinach Parmesan Pasta recipe a try. Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes if you make it! I’d love to see your creations and hear your feedback.
Happy cooking, and I’ll see you in the next recipe!
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes
- Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside
- Sauté garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute
- Add fresh spinach leaves to the garlic and oil mixture, cooking until wilted, about 2-3 minutes
- Combine cooked pasta, wilted spinach mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese in a large bowl, tossing to combine
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving
- Serve hot and enjoy