Pasta in Spinach Basil Sauce Recipe
Overview
Dive into a delightful blend of flavors with our Pasta in Spinach Basil Sauce recipe, a vibrant and creamy dish that combines the goodness of spinach and fresh basil, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also promises a nutritious experience, ideal for any occasion. Pair it with complementary dishes like Harissa Roasted Carrot Pizza and Pineapple Carpaccio for a complete dining experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Penne pasta (or pasta of choice) | 300 grams |
| Mixed Herbs (Dried) | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Spinach (chopped) | 3 cups |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Basil leaves (torn roughly) | Few sprigs |
| Britannia Cheese Block | 2 slices |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta (or your preferred pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. To prevent sticking, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and toss gently.
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Sauté the Garlic and Spinach: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Next, add the chopped spinach along with salt, pepper, and cumin powder. Stir well and let the spinach cook down until it wilts and becomes tender, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
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Make the Spinach Basil Puree: In a blender, combine the cooked spinach mixture, milk, torn basil leaves, and Britannia cheese slices. Blend until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious spinach basil puree.
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Combine Pasta with Sauce: In the same heavy-bottomed pan (no need to wash it), heat another teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with the mixed herbs and the spinach basil puree. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly, ensuring every piece is enveloped in the creamy sauce. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve: Your Pasta in Spinach Basil Sauce is now ready to be served! Transfer the dish to a serving bowl and enjoy it warm. For an elevated meal, pair it with Harissa Roasted Carrot Pizza with Pomegranate Sauce and Greek Yogurt, along with a refreshing Pineapple Carpaccio.
Conclusion
This Pasta in Spinach Basil Sauce not only highlights the fresh flavors of its ingredients but also creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress both family and friends. Enjoy your culinary creation!
