Introduction to Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Why Spaghetti and Spinach Make the Perfect Weeknight Meal
If you're on the lookout for a delightful weeknight dinner that won’t break the bank or steal hours from your evening, this spaghetti and spinach recipe is just the ticket! Spaghetti is not only a pantry staple but also a versatile canvas for flavor. Coupled with fresh spinach, this dish offers a delightful mix of textures and nutrients that can brighten up your plate and your mood.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up in about 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy professionals who want to enjoy home-cooked meals without spending all night in the kitchen. The sun-dried tomato cream sauce requires minimal ingredients and brings a rich, savory flavor that elevates the overall dish.
Plus, spinach is packed with vitamins A and C, making it a great healthy addition to your dinner. For a little extra protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or turkey bacon, or pair it with a light salad to complete your meal. If you find yourself short on time during the week, this spaghetti and spinach recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Feel free to explore more options to customize this dish by checking out resources like The Mediterranean Dish for more ideas!
Ingredients for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Essential ingredients for the dish
Creating a delicious spaghetti and spinach recipe starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dish:
- 5 ounces baby spinach, coarsely chopped
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti for a nutritious base
- 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar to enhance flavor
- ½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for that rich umami essence
- ½ cup halved and thinly sliced onion for sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic goodness
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper to introduce a bit of heat
- ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon ground pepper for seasoning
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth for depth
- ½ cup sour cream to add creaminess
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for richness
Optional add-ins for added flavor
Feel free to customize your spaghetti and spinach recipe for that personal touch! Here are some optional ingredients that can amp up the flavor:
- Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and texture
- Olives for a briny bite
- Herbs like basil or rosemary for added aroma
- Grilled chicken or turkey bacon for a protein boost
- A splash of lemon juice for brightness
By mixing in these optional ingredients, you can easily transform this dish into something uniquely your own. Whether you’re looking for more vegetables or extra protein, let your taste guide the way!
Step-by-step Preparation of Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Cooking a delicious, wholesome meal after a long day is a breeze with this spaghetti and spinach recipe. Here’s a straightforward, step-by-step guide to prepare your delightful dish featuring sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy sauce.
Prepare the spinach and spaghetti
To kick things off, grab a large colander and place your 5 ounces of coarsely chopped spinach inside. Next, bring a large saucepan filled with water to a rolling boil over high heat. As the water heats up, measure out 8 ounces of whole-wheat spaghetti. Once boiling, toss in the spaghetti and let it cook according to the package instructions. When it’s done, carefully drain the spaghetti over the spinach. This allows the hot pasta to wilt the spinach perfectly—quick and efficient!
Create the sun-dried tomato cream sauce
While your pasta is cooking, it’s the perfect time to whip up your sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in ½ cup of slivered sun-dried tomatoes along with ½ cup of finely sliced onion. Cook these ingredients for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until they become softened. Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper, and season with ¼ teaspoon each of salt and ground pepper. Stir this mixture for another minute before increasing the heat to medium-high. Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth, and let it simmer until it reduces by half, roughly 2 minutes. Finally, stir in ½ cup of sour cream, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
Combine pasta, spinach, and sauce
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time for the magic of mixing! Add the drained spaghetti and wilted spinach directly into the skillet with your creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Toss everything together well, ensuring that each strand of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce and the spinach is evenly distributed. This is where you can really appreciate the beautiful combination of flavors.
Add garnishes and seasonings
To elevate your dish, consider adding some fresh herbs or additional cheese as a garnish. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can add a lovely green pop. If you like a bit of spice, feel free to adjust the crushed red pepper to your taste. Give everything one last gentle toss and taste to see if more seasoning is needed.
Plate the dish
Finally, it’s time for the best part—serving! Divide your spaghetti and spinach onto plates, making sure each serving gets a generous amount of the sun-dried tomato cream sauce. For an impressive touch, finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, and enjoy a delightful dinner that’s both comforting and quick to make.
Crafting this spaghetti and spinach recipe not only brings delicious flavors but also adds a nutritious twist to a classic dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Variations on Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Adding Protein Options
To elevate your spaghetti and spinach recipe, consider incorporating different proteins. Bite-sized strips of rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp can easily amp up the flavors while making the dish heartier. Feeling adventurous? Turkey bacon or chicken ham adds a savory twist that complements the sun-dried tomato cream sauce beautifully. For a plant-based variety, try chickpeas or white beans, which not only add protein but also enhance the dish's texture and nutritional value.
Exploring Different Vegetables
Don’t hesitate to experiment with an array of veggies to personalize your meal. Adding portobello mushrooms, roasted pepper strips, or even asparagus can infuse freshness and additional nutrients. For a twist on the greens, kale works wonderfully in place of spinach, offering a richer flavor and delightful crunch. These additions not only diversify your spaghetti and spinach recipe but also keep it vibrant and exciting every time you whip it up!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
How to adjust the sauce consistency
If you find that the sauce for your spaghetti and spinach recipe is too thick, don’t worry! You can easily adjust it by adding a little more vegetable or chicken broth as you heat it on the stovetop. Start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken naturally.
Storage tips for leftovers
To maintain freshness, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the dish in a skillet over low to medium heat. You may need to stir in a splash of water or broth to revive the creaminess of the sauce! For more tips on storing and reheating pasta, check out this guide.
Serving Suggestions for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Ideal Side Dishes
To elevate your spaghetti and spinach recipe, consider pairing it with a refreshing salad. Options like a mixed greens salad with cucumber herb vinaigrette or a watermelon and arugula salad complement the creamy richness beautifully. For added heartiness, warm, crusty bread or rolls are perfect for soaking up that delicious sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Beverage Pairings
When it comes to beverages, explore sparkling water with a twist of lemon for a refreshing, non-alcoholic option. Alternatively, a light herbal tea or iced tea can provide a lovely, complementary flavor that enhances the dish. For something a bit warmer, consider a soothing cup of chamomile or peppermint tea to round out your meal perfectly.
By thoughtfully pairing your spaghetti and spinach recipe with these sides and beverages, you'll create a dining experience that's as delightful as it is delicious!
Time Breakdown for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Preparation Time
Spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients for your spaghetti and spinach recipe. This includes chopping the spinach and onion and measuring out your favorites like sun-dried tomatoes and spices.
Cooking Time
The cooking process only takes 10 minutes, as you’ll be boiling the spaghetti and quickly sautéing the ingredients for the creamy sauce.
Total Time
In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal that's not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
For more tips and recipes like this, check out Eating Well.
Nutritional Facts for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Calories
This spaghetti and spinach recipe packs a satisfying punch with approximately 425 calories per serving. It's a balanced meal that keeps you fueled without weighing you down—perfect for a quick weekday dinner!
Protein
With about 15 grams of protein per serving, this dish helps support muscle repair and keeps you feeling full. Pair it with some grilled chicken or shrimp for an even heartier boost!
Sodium
The recipe is mindful of sodium levels, containing around 400 milligrams per serving. By using low-sodium broth, you can enjoy all the flavor without the excessive salt, making it a heart-healthy choice.
By incorporating nutritious ingredients like spinach and whole-wheat spaghetti, this meal not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your body! If you’re looking for more healthy pasta ideas, you might enjoy checking out EatingWell's pasta recipes.
FAQs about Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this spaghetti and spinach recipe vegan, simply substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Also, replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute. These small changes will still give you a creamy texture and rich flavor without any animal products.
How do I store the leftovers?
To store any leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy your spaghetti and spinach dish again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much, as this will help maintain its creamy consistency.
What are some quick adjustments for time efficiency?
In a hurry? You can streamline the process by using pre-washed spinach and jarred sun-dried tomatoes. This cuts down on prep time significantly. Additionally, you might want to cook the spaghetti while you prepare the sauce — this way, everything comes together perfectly without wasting any time! For even more speed, consider using a pre-made cream sauce to mix in with the sun-dried tomatoes.
For tips on meal prep or quick cooking techniques, refer to resources like EatingWell's website for additional cooking methods!
Conclusion on Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
In summary, this spaghetti and spinach recipe with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is not just a delightful dish; it's a quick and nutritious solution for busy weeknights. By using simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a plate that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. Enjoy!
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Equipment
- large colander
- large saucepan
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 5 ounces baby spinach coarsely chopped
- ½ cup halved and thinly sliced onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Pasta
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar
- ½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Place spinach in a large colander in the sink. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta over the spinach; toss to wilt the spinach.
- Heat sun-dried tomatoes and oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sun-dried tomatoes; cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add broth; cook until reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Stir in sour cream, Parmesan, and butter. Add the spaghetti and spinach; toss to coat well.
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