Capellini Toscano
A flavorful Italian pasta dish featuring capellini tossed with spinach, ham, marinara, and creamy cheese, perfect for a comforting yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter with olive oil in a frying pan.
- Saute spinach for 10 minutes.
- Add diced ham and saute for 10 minutes.
- Add marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in grated cheese and light cream.
- Heat through without boiling.
- Serve over cooked and well-drained capellini.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider substituting the honey-baked ham with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein to make it vegetarian. If fresh spinach is available, use it instead of frozen for a fresher flavor. Adjust the cream and cheese quantities based on your preference for richness. Serve with Italian Garlic Toast for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with extra grated cheese and freshly cracked pepper. Pair it with a side of Cheesy Italian Tomato And Olive Salad for a refreshing contrast. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully. For a complete meal, consider adding Italian recipes like Italian-Style Garlic Spread For Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t boil to maintain the cream's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Capellini Toscano contains roughly 1659 calories, with 11g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 167g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen. Sauté it until wilted, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly since fresh spinach cooks faster.
What can I substitute for light cream?
You can substitute light cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream, which adds a unique flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes when sautéing the spinach or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your taste, and enjoy the added kick!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).