Introduction to Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Why Spaghetti and Spinach is a Perfect Weeknight Meal
When you're juggling a busy week, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's where this delightful spaghetti and spinach recipe shines! Packed with nutrients and bold flavors, it’s a quick and nourishing option that even the pickiest eaters will love. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner ready in around 20 minutes—perfect for those post-work evenings when time is of the essence.
Plus, the combination of whole-wheat spaghetti and fresh spinach not only creates a hearty meal but also offers a fiber-packed dish that keeps you full. Spinach, known for its rich vitamins and minerals, adds a burst of color and nutrition, while the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce brings a gourmet touch without fuss.
Why not elevate your dinner game this week? Give this spaghetti and spinach dish a try, and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation. You'll be surprised at how easily it comes together, and how quickly it disappears from your plate! Want to learn more cooking tips? Check out EatingWell for healthy inspiration.
Ingredients for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Essential Ingredients for the Dish
This spaghetti and spinach recipe combines fresh ingredients that create a delightful flavor profile. Here’s what you need to whip this dish together:
- 5 ounces baby spinach: Adds freshness and nutrients.
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti: A wholesome base for the dish.
- 1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar: Infuses a rich flavor into the sauce.
- ½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes: Offers a burst of savory goodness.
- ½ cup halved and thinly sliced onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic kick.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Just enough heat!
- ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper: Essential seasonings.
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Creates the creamy sauce texture.
- ½ cup sour cream: Gives that luxurious creaminess.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the dish with a salty richness.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds a touch of richness.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
Don’t hesitate to play with this recipe! Here are a few optional ingredients you might consider to make it your own:
- Other greens: Substitute spinach with kale for a different texture.
- Vegetables: Incorporate sliced portobello mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Protein: Chicken ham or turkey bacon can be great additions for a heartier meal.
- Nuts or seeds: Consider topping your dish with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch.
Mix and match this ingredient list to suit your taste and dietary preferences! For additional recipe inspiration and tips, explore sources like EatingWell for fresh ideas.
Preparing Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Creating a delightful dinner with spaghetti and spinach doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, with the right preparation, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time! Follow these simple steps to bring the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy goodness together in harmony.
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you start, it's essential to have everything you need at your fingertips. You’ll require:
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Ingredients:
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5 ounces baby spinach, coarsely chopped
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8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
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1 tablespoon oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
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½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
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½ cup thinly sliced onions
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon ground pepper
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1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
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½ cup sour cream
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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Equipment:
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A large colander
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Large saucepan
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Large skillet
Perfectly Cook the Spaghetti
Start by filling a large saucepan with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Cooking the spaghetti to perfect al dente is crucial for this recipe. Once the water is boiling, add your whole-wheat spaghetti. Refer to the package instructions for cooking time; usually, it will take about 8-10 minutes. After draining, pour the pasta over the colander filled with spinach to wilt the greens—this is a neat trick that also helps integrate flavors!
Wilt the Spinach
By placing the spinach in the colander, allowing the drained pasta to sit atop, you create a quick and effective way to wilt the spinach. In just a couple of minutes, the residual heat will do all the work, softening the spinach beautifully and preparing it to mingle with the creamy sauce.
Prepare the Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
While the pasta cooks, it’s time to create your sauce. In a large skillet, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Introduce minced garlic, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper, sautéing for another minute. Then, increase the heat to medium-high, adding your broth. Stir continuously until the mixture reduces by half—this will intensify the flavors dramatically. Finally, mix in the sour cream, Parmesan, and butter, ensuring a smooth finish.
Combine Everything Together
Now for the best part! Toss the cooked spaghetti and wilted spinach into the skillet with the sauce. Allow all components to mingle for a couple of minutes over low heat. This stage is essential, as it allows the pasta to absorb the flavors from the sauce. Serve warm, and savor every bite of this delightful spaghetti and spinach recipe.
For additional tips on flavor enhancement, be sure to check out resources like EatingWell for nutrition insights. Enjoy your meal!
Variations on Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Adding Protein Like Chicken or Shrimp
Elevate your spaghetti and spinach recipe by adding protein! Consider tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying twist. For a quick option, rotisserie chicken strips blend seamlessly with the sun-dried tomato cream sauce. If you're aiming for a more gourmet touch, sauté shrimp in garlic and olive oil before mixing them in—delicious and nutritious!
Incorporating Different Veggies
Don't hesitate to get creative with your vegetable choices! While spinach is a classic, you can easily adapt the dish to include other greens like kale or even broccoli florets. Add roasted bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed zucchini to enhance both texture and flavor, making your meal visually appealing and nutritious. For more veggie ideas, check out EatingWell’s Vegetable Guide!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Avoiding Overcooked Spinach
To maintain the vibrant color and nutrient content of your spinach, add it to the spaghetti only at the end of cooking. Simply toss the cooked pasta with the spinach in a large colander, allowing the residual heat to wilt it slightly. This method ensures your spinach stays fresh and flavorful rather than turning mushy.
Storing Leftover Sauce
If you find yourself with extra sun-dried tomato cream sauce, don’t fret! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, opt for a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth to restore its creaminess. For more tips on storing sauces, check out resources from FoodSafety.gov. This will make your next meal just as delicious as the first!
Serving Suggestions for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Pairing with Salads or Bread
When it comes to enhancing your spaghetti and spinach recipe, consider incorporating a crisp salad or fresh bread on the side. A refreshing Mixed Lettuce Salad with Cucumber Herb Vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce. Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread to help mop up every last bit of that delightful sauce. You’ll want to savor every drop!
Presenting as a One-Dish Meal
To elevate your spaghetti and spinach into a satisfying one-dish meal, you can simply add protein. Rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp make fantastic additions that will not only enhance the dish but also turn it into an incredibly hearty meal. Your guests will appreciate the extra effort, and you'll love how quick and easy it is to prepare! For more serving ideas, check out our collection of easy dinner recipes at EatingWell.
Time Breakdown for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Preparation Time
This delightful spaghetti and spinach recipe takes just 5 minutes to prep. Gather your ingredients, chop your veggies, and you’re ready to go!
Cooking Time
Once you’ve prepped everything, the cooking time is around 15 minutes. That’s just enough time to boil your pasta and whip up the sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
Total Time
In a mere 20 minutes, you can serve up a delicious dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely satisfying!
For more recipe inspiration, check out EatingWell!
Nutritional Facts for Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
When you whip up this delicious Spaghetti and Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce, it's not just about taste—it's also important to consider the nutrition. Here’s what you need to know:
Calories
This satisfying dish comes in at 380 calories per serving, making it a fulfilling yet reasonable option for a weeknight dinner.
Protein Content
With 13 grams of protein, this spaghetti and spinach recipe offers a nice boost to help keep you energized throughout your busy day.
Key Vitamins and Minerals
What’s more, this recipe is packed with essential nutrients, including:
- Potassium (587mg): Vital for heart health and muscle function.
- Dietary Fiber (7g): Great for digestive health.
- Calcium: Thanks to the Parmesan cheese, you get a bit of bone-strengthening calcium in each bite.
By incorporating whole foods like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, you’re not just enjoying a tasty meal; you’re nourishing your body too!
For more nutritional insights, check out Healthline or Nutrition.gov. These resources can help you understand the benefits of the ingredients we often use in our recipes.
FAQs about Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! If you're looking to make this spaghetti and spinach recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the whole-wheat spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Quinoa pasta or brown rice pasta both work beautifully and will maintain the delightful flavors of the sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This dish stands well on its own, but if you'd like to enhance your meal, consider pairing it with a light salad. Options like a refreshing Watermelon & Arugula Salad or a classic Mixed Lettuce Salad with Cucumber Herb Vinaigrette complement it nicely. Some warm, crusty bread is great for soaking up that creamy sauce too!
How do I store leftovers properly?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the sauce from curdling. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to get that creamy consistency back. Just be sure to stir frequently for even heating!
Conclusion on Spaghetti and Spinach Recipe
In conclusion, this spaghetti and spinach recipe with sun-dried tomato cream sauce is a quick and flavorful dinner option. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's packed with nutrients and versatility. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and consider experimenting with added veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out EatingWell's pasta collection.
Spaghetti & Spinach with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Equipment
- Large colander
- large saucepan
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 5 ounces baby spinach coarsely chopped
- 8 ounces whole-wheat spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomato jar
- ½ cup slivered oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
- ½ cup onion halved and thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Place spinach in a large colander in the sink. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta over the spinach; toss to wilt the spinach.
- Meanwhile, heat sun-dried tomatoes along with oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sun-dried tomatoes; cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, crushed red pepper, salt and pepper; cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add broth; cook, stirring, until reduced by about half, about 2 minutes. Stir in sour cream, Parmesan and butter. Add the spaghetti and spinach; toss to coat well.
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