Spinach Or String Beans With Tomatoes And Spaghetti(Spinach All Pomodori E Spaghetti)
A vibrant and wholesome Italian-inspired dish featuring sautéed tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and spaghetti, perfect for a hearty, nutritious family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, sauté garlic in olive oil until lightly browned.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, red crushed pepper, salt, parsley, and water to the saucepan.
- Cook for 10 to 12 minutes over medium heat.
- Add frozen spinach and cook an additional 25 minutes until spinach is heated thoroughly.
- While the sauce is cooking, boil spaghetti according to package directions.
- Drain the spaghetti and pour the cooked spinach mixture over the pasta.
- Toss thoroughly and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce. If you prefer a fresher taste, substitute fresh spinach for frozen, using about 10 ounces. Adjust the red crushed pepper to your taste for a milder or spicier dish. This recipe can also be made with string beans for a different texture. To enhance the dish, top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a light side salad, such as Scarola Insalata(Italian Salad), to balance the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or a simple vegetable side, like Italian Style Asparagus, pairs nicely. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top, or serve with a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad, making it versatile for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Or String Beans With Tomatoes And Spaghetti(Spinach All Pomodori E Spaghetti) contains roughly 921 calories, with 7g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1558mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes for this recipe. You'll need about 4-5 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Just ensure to cook them down until they release their juices, similar to the canned tomatoes, to achieve the right consistency in the sauce.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. There are various options available, including rice, quinoa, or corn-based pasta, which will work well with the sauce and spinach mixture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just be sure to use a vegan-friendly pasta, and feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more variety and nutrients.
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).