Spinach Lemon Spaghetti Recipe
Embark on a culinary journey with this delightful Spinach Lemon Spaghetti, a dish that elegantly combines the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and zesty lemon with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant gathering, this Italian-inspired recipe will leave your taste buds singing and your heart satisfied.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (boiled, shredded) | 1 |
| Tomatoes (diced into large cubes) | 4 |
| Spinach (blanched) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 5 cloves |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Red chili flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Paprika powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Spaghetti pasta | 250 grams |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 400 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 70 mg |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 |
| Cook Time | 15 |
| Total Time | 30 |
Servings
| Servings | 2 |
Course
| Course | Dinner |
|---|
Cuisine
| Cuisine | Italian Recipes |
Diet
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Instructions
To begin making the Spinach Lemon Spaghetti, gather and prepare all your ingredients meticulously. Start by blanching the spinach until it is bright green and tender, then set it aside to cool. Meanwhile, boil the chicken breast until cooked through, allowing it to cool slightly before shredding it into small pieces. You can use your hands for this step, ensuring that the chicken is tender and easy to incorporate into your dish.
Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to maintain its warmth.
In a large flat skillet or pan, heat the butter over medium heat until it melts, then add the extra virgin olive oil, stirring well to combine the two fats for a rich base. Introduce the shredded chicken and half of the minced garlic to the pan, sautéing until the chicken is heated through. Sprinkle in the paprika powder, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes, mixing everything well. Continue cooking until the chicken is perfectly flavored and set aside.
Increase the heat slightly, adding the remaining minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and blanched spinach to the skillet. Cook these ingredients together until the tomatoes become tender and slightly mushy, creating a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. At this point, return the cooked spaghetti to the pan, tossing gently to incorporate everything. You can add a bit more butter at this stage if desired for an extra layer of flavor.
Now, enhance the dish with fresh lemon juice, seasoning with additional salt and a few more chili flakes to taste. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly, allowing the flavors to meld. Finally, reintroduce the cooked chicken to the mixture, stirring over medium heat for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve the Spinach Lemon Spaghetti hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese—mozzarella, parmesan, or your favorite processed cheese works wonderfully. This dish pairs beautifully with a classic Pizza Margherita and a glass of your preferred wine, making it the perfect choice for a delightful weekend dinner.
Bon Appétit!
Indulge in this refreshing Spinach Lemon Spaghetti recipe that captures the essence of Italian cooking with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy every bite and share it with loved ones, turning an ordinary meal into a memorable feast!
