Linguine With Spinach
A flavorful and quick pasta dish featuring tender linguine, fresh spinach, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that appeals to all tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break linguine into 1-inch lengths and set aside.
- Saute sliced carrot, sliced celery, and chopped onion in melted butter in a Dutch oven until crisp-tender.
- Add the broken linguine to the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, until the pasta begins to brown.
- Add water, chicken-flavored bouillon cube, onion-flavored bouillon cube, and garlic.
- Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- Place spinach on top of the pasta, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss the mixture to combine and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. If you don't have chicken-flavored bouillon, vegetable bouillon can be a suitable substitute. You can also add cooked shredded chicken for added protein, making it similar to other chicken recipes like Easy Chicken Piccata.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the linguine with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread, making it a great option for a light lunch or dinner. It complements other Italian recipes beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pasta before microwaving to prevent it from drying out. Stir gently to mix the spinach and pasta evenly when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguine With Spinach contains roughly 523 calories, with 13g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% 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 whole wheat linguine instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat linguine is a great alternative and adds more fiber to the dish. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness a minute or two earlier than the package instructions.
Is it possible to add protein to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can stir in cooked chicken or shrimp right before serving for a protein boost. This makes the dish heartier and can elevate it to a main course, similar to Chicken In Lemon-Tomato Sauce.
What type of spinach should I use?
Fresh spinach is ideal for this recipe, as it wilts nicely and adds a fresh flavor. If you have frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it, but fresh is recommended for the best texture.
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).