Penne rigate with spinach and sour cream
Penne Rigate with Spinach and Cream: A Wonderful Pasta Dish
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Welcome to the delicious world of pasta! Today, I will present a recipe for penne rigate with spinach and cream, which is so simple yet so flavorful. This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or a meal with friends. I invite you to discover the simple steps to achieve a perfect result.
Recipe Story
Pasta has a long history, being a symbol of Italian cuisine, but appreciated all over the world. This recipe combines the al dente texture of pasta with the richness of spinach and the creaminess of the cream sauce, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. The addition of garlic and cheese makes every bite a true explosion of flavors!
Ingredients
- 200 g penne rigate or fusilli (pasta that holds sauce better)
- 500 g frozen spinach
- 200 ml cooking cream Dorna (minimum 12% fat), at room temperature
- 125 g mozzarella
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 3 tablespoons grated sheep cheese (optional)
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 red onion
- 1 white onion
- Nutmeg, dried basil, salt, white pepper
- Olive oil
Preparation Steps
1. Boiling the Pasta: Start by bringing 2 liters of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a few leaves of dried basil, a bay leaf, coriander seeds, and a crushed garlic clove to flavor the water. When the water starts to boil, add salt. It is important not to skimp on salt, as it is essential for flavoring the pasta. Then, add the pasta and stir frequently to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Preparing the Sauce: Meanwhile, finely chop the onions and crush a garlic clove. In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the garlic over low heat, being careful not to burn it. When the garlic releases its aroma, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
3. Adding the Spinach: Now, add the frozen spinach directly to the skillet. Cover with a lid and let it thaw and heat for about 10 minutes. Add a handful of ground basil, a teaspoon of seasoning, a pinch of nutmeg, and white pepper, stirring well to combine the flavors.
4. Creating the Cream Sauce: Once the spinach is completely thawed and well cooked, add the cream. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Finishing the Pasta: Drain the pasta and add it directly to the spinach sauce, mixing well to combine. It is important that the pasta is hot when added to the sauce, to absorb the flavors.
6. Adding the Cheeses: Remove the sauce from heat and add the remaining crushed garlic, diced mozzarella, sheep cheese, and grated parmesan. Mix well to melt the cheeses and achieve a creamy consistency.
7. Serving: Serve the pasta immediately, topped with a spoonful of parmesan. If you are a garlic lover, you can add some chopped raw cloves at the end for a more intense flavor.
Practical Tips
- Cooking the Pasta: Make sure to add salt to the boiling water before adding the pasta. This will help enhance the flavor.
- Pasta Temperature: Do not rinse the pasta with cold water after draining. This could cool them down and prevent the sauce from sticking.
- Generous Sauce: Don't skimp on the sauce! Pasta with generous sauce is always tastier and more appetizing.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in nutrients, thanks to spinach, which is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. The cream and cheeses add a good dose of protein and calcium, while the pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy.
Possible Variations
- Adding Protein: You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for an even more protein-rich meal.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you want a vegan option, you can use plant-based cheese or tofu to replace the cheese.
- Additional Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to diversify the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent option for a healthier meal.
2. How can I store leftover pasta? You can store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little milk to restore the desired consistency.
3. Can I freeze the spinach sauce? Yes, the sauce can be frozen and saved for later use, but the pasta is recommended to be consumed fresh.
This penne rigate with spinach and cream recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. I invite you to try it and enjoy its enticing flavors! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 200 g penne rigate or fusilli, pasta that holds sauce better 500 g frozen spinach 200 ml Dorna cooking cream minimum 12% fat, at room temperature 125 g mozzarella 4 heaping tablespoons grated parmesan 3 tablespoons grated sheep telemea optional 1 head of garlic 1 red onion 1 white onion nutmeg, basil, salt, white pepper, olive oil
