Creamy Spinach Basil Pasta Recipe
Discover the delightful flavors of Italian cuisine with this Creamy Spinach Basil Pasta, a perfect balance of freshness and indulgence. This vegetarian dish combines the earthy taste of spinach and the aromatic zing of basil in a creamy, cheesy sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta. Whether you’re preparing lunch or dinner, this easy-to-make recipe will surely impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach Leaves (Palak) | 2 cups (washed & finely chopped) |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 1/2 cup |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (finely chopped) |
| Fusilli Pasta | 2 cups (or pasta of your choice) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As required |
| Red Chilli Flakes | As required |
| Fresh Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | As required |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Calcium | 180mg |
Preparation Time
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
To begin the Creamy Spinach Basil Pasta, first bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of oil. Add the fusilli pasta (or pasta of your choice) to the boiling water and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but firm to the bite (al dente). After cooking, drain the pasta and run it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to prevent the pasta from sticking together, and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach-Basil Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and onion to the pan. Sauté until the onion turns soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the spinach and basil leaves to the pan, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the leaves have wilted and are fully cooked. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool for a moment.
Once cooled, transfer the spinach and basil mixture into a blender. Add the fresh cream and a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to help create a smooth consistency. Blend until the mixture becomes a creamy, smooth sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as necessary.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the cooked pasta to the saucepan. Pour the creamy spinach-basil sauce over the pasta and toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Sprinkle in the grated cheddar cheese and a pinch of red chili flakes for a touch of heat. Stir everything together, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce and add a rich, creamy texture to the dish. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes on low heat to let all the flavors come together.
Step 4: Serve
Once everything is thoroughly mixed and heated, your Creamy Spinach Basil Pasta is ready to be served! Dish it out into bowls and garnish with additional cheddar cheese, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestion
For an even more delightful meal, serve this creamy pasta with some Garlic Bread on the side and pair it with a chilled glass of white wine for the perfect Italian-inspired lunch or dinner. Enjoy!
This Creamy Spinach Basil Pasta is a vegetarian delight, combining the goodness of fresh greens with a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, this dish brings a taste of Italy right to your table. Try it today and savor the creamy goodness in every bite!
