Green Spaghetti
Green spaghetti combines vibrant spinach and creamy cheese for a flavorful, nutritious pasta dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a satisfying vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the fresh spinach until just wilted or the frozen until warm.
- Put spinach and its liquid into a blender.
- Add warm broth and liquify.
- Stir cheese and milk into the spinach puree.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with butter, then with the green sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought pesto to mix with the spaghetti. Adding some garlic when sautéing the spinach will enhance the flavor profile significantly. You can also substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative if desired, making this a versatile option for various diets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the green spaghetti with a sprinkle of extra grated cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad dressed with Low Calorie Creamy Italian Dressing for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside garlic bread or a light protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. It’s a delightful addition to any Italian recipes collection.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating without drying out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Spaghetti contains roughly 437 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach is a great substitute and saves time. Just ensure to thaw and drain it well before blending to avoid excess water in your sauce.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano are excellent choices, as they add a rich, salty flavor. You can also experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
Can this dish be made vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk or cream. This makes it a delicious option for those following vegetarian recipes or vegan diets.
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).