Pasta with spinach

Delicious spinach pasta recipe - a simple and healthy dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a plate of creamy, flavorful pasta packed with nutrients? Our spinach pasta recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, but also for a comforting lunch. Besides being easy to prepare, this dish is an excellent source of vitamins, based on a wonder ingredient - spinach. Throughout history, spinach has been valued not only for its pleasant taste but also for its nutritional benefits, being an important source of iron and antioxidants.

Necessary ingredients:
- 600 g spinach (you can use fresh or frozen spinach, but today we'll opt for frozen for convenience)
- 250 g penne pasta (Barilla brand is an excellent choice due to its texture)
- 1 large onion (about 150 g)
- 5 cloves of garlic (I advise using fresh garlic for a more intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin olive oil is ideal for added flavor)

Step 1: Cooking the pasta
Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a teaspoon of salt and bring the water to a boil over high heat. When the water reaches boiling point, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions (about 10-12 minutes). Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Blanching the spinach
In another pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the frozen spinach. Blanch it for 5-6 minutes. This process helps preserve the color and nutrients, and the spinach will significantly reduce in volume. Once done, drain it well and chop it finely.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic cloves, also chopped. Add about 100 ml of water to the skillet to help cook the onion and garlic. Let everything simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, mix well, and season with salt to taste. Let the mixture cook for 7-10 minutes so the flavors can blend.

Step 5: Finishing the dish
When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet over the spinach and vegetable mixture. Carefully mix everything, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the flavorful sauce. Serve hot, possibly with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top for added flavor.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add extra protein, you can combine this recipe with grilled chicken or fried tofu.
- A healthy alternative is to use whole grain pasta, which will add even more fiber to your dish.
- You can also add some halved cherry tomatoes for an extra splash of color and freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach is a vegetable high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium. It is also low in calories, making it an ideal ingredient for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is fantastic, just make sure to wash it well and cook it a bit longer to soften.
- What other sauces can I use to vary the recipe?
You can try a tomato sauce or a creamy white sauce to add another level of flavor.

Serving suggestion:
Serve the pasta with a fresh green salad alongside a lemon and olive oil dressing. An excellent drink to complement the meal would be a dry white wine or a refreshing herbal tea.

This spinach pasta recipe is not only simple but also quick. It’s perfect for those evenings when time is limited, but you want to impress your family or friends with a tasty and healthy meal. I invite you to experiment and bring a touch of your personal style to each dish! Enjoy your meal!