Pasta With Spinach And Parmesan Cheese
Creamy pasta with spinach and Parmesan offers a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for weeknights, combining fresh greens, aromatic garlic, and rich cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw spinach and press out excess liquid.
- Heat olive oil with basil and minced garlic for a few minutes.
- Add spinach and salt; cook and stir over low heat about 5 minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese and milk to the spinach mixture.
- Toss this mixture with cooked fettucine until well blended.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk to the spinach mixture. If you don't have fettuccine, linguine or even penne can work well. Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted. Adjust the garlic to your taste, and feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a refreshing salad, such as Pasta And Spinach Salad, for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a homemade Italian recipe for a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Spinach And Parmesan Cheese contains roughly 624 calories, with 6g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1920mg per serving (83% 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, you can use fresh spinach! You'll need about 10 oz. of fresh spinach. Simply sauté it until wilted and then proceed with the recipe as directed. Fresh spinach offers a vibrant flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be great substitutes, offering a similar flavor profile. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor for those following vegetarian recipes.
Can I add protein to this pasta dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be excellent additions to this pasta. Simply cook the protein separately and toss it in with the pasta and spinach mixture for a heartier meal.
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).