Description
Green Spaghetti is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines traditional pasta with a creamy green sauce made from fresh herbs and leafy greens. It’s a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, offering a refreshing change from traditional tomato-based sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
- 400g spaghetti (whole wheat, gluten-free, or regular)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, packed
- 1 cup fresh basil, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (substitute with vegan cheese for a vegan version)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
- ¼ cup pine nuts (optional, adds a nutty flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor:
- Avocado: Adds creaminess without the need for cream
- Jalapeños: For a spicy kick
- Lemon zest: Adds brightness to the sauce
- Chicken or shrimp: For a protein boost
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
- Blanch the spinach in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water to retain its vibrant color.
- In a blender, combine the blanched spinach, fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth. For a creamier sauce, add the heavy cream and blend again until fully incorporated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using optional ingredients like avocado or jalapeños, blend them in at this stage.
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency later if needed.
Combine Spaghetti with Green Sauce:
- In a large pan, toss the cooked spaghetti with the green sauce over medium heat until evenly coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Serve immediately, garnished
- Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Green Spaghetti Recipe