Al Lewis’ Spinach Fettuccine With Crab Sauce is a delightful pasta dish known for its rich flavors and unique combination of spinach-infused fettuccine and a creamy crab sauce. While there isn’t a widely known historical origin for this specific recipe, it’s likely a creation of a chef or home cook who wanted to combine the earthy taste of spinach pasta with the luxuriousness of crab.
Here are the key components and steps to prepare Al Lewis’ Spinach Fettuccine With Crab Sauce:
Components:
- Spinach Fettuccine: This pasta is made with spinach puree, giving it a vibrant green color and a subtle spinach flavor.
- Crab Sauce: The creamy crab sauce is the star of the dish. It typically includes ingredients like lump crab meat, heavy cream, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, white wine, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and perhaps a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Steps to Prepare:
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Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spinach fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Crab Sauce:
a. In a large skillet, melt some butter over medium heat.
b. Add minced garlic and sauté for a minute or until fragrant.
c. Pour in white wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
d. Stir in heavy cream and allow it to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
e. Add lump crab meat and cook just until heated through, being careful not to overcook the crab.
f. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if desired.
g. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well combined. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spinach fettuccine to the skillet with the crab sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
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Serve: Plate the Spinach Fettuccine With Crab Sauce, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this dish can vary, but it typically takes around 30-40 minutes to prepare, including both pasta cooking and sauce preparation. The time may vary based on your cooking experience and familiarity with the recipe.
Now you have all the information you need to prepare Al Lewis’ Spinach Fettuccine With Crab Sauce, a dish that combines the richness of crab with the unique twist of spinach-infused fettuccine. Enjoy your meal!
While I can’t provide specific nutrition facts for Al Lewis’ Spinach Fettuccine With Crab Sauce since it can vary based on ingredients and serving sizes, I can give you some general health information about this type of dish.
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Protein: Crab meat is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
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Carbohydrates: Fettuccine pasta contains carbohydrates, providing energy for your body.
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Fiber: Spinach fettuccine may contain some dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
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Calories: The dish can be calorie-dense due to the creamy crab sauce, butter, and heavy cream. Be mindful of portion sizes.
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Fat: The sauce typically contains fats from butter, cream, and possibly Parmesan cheese. While these add flavor, they can also contribute to the calorie count.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach is rich in vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Crab meat contains essential nutrients like zinc and selenium.
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Sodium: Be cautious of the salt content, especially if you’re using canned crab meat or adding additional salt during cooking.
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Cholesterol: Crab meat can be high in cholesterol, so it’s important to consume it in moderation if you’re watching your cholesterol intake.
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Balance: To make the dish healthier, consider using whole-grain pasta for added fiber, reducing the amount of heavy cream, and using olive oil instead of butter. You can also incorporate more vegetables like spinach or asparagus to boost nutritional value.
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Portion Control: Since the dish may be calorie-rich, controlling your portion size is key to enjoying it as part of a balanced diet.
For precise nutrition facts, you can calculate them based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe. Additionally, consulting with a registered dietitian can help you tailor the dish to your dietary needs and preferences while ensuring it aligns with your health goals.