Baked pasta with spinach

Baked Spinach Pasta: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a dish that combines the flavor of pasta with the freshness of spinach? This baked spinach pasta recipe is not only simple but also very tasty, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Soft, creamy, and full of flavor, this dish will entice you with every bite.

A Brief History of the Recipe

The origins of pasta dishes are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, but the combination with spinach is a more recent one, reflecting modern trends of adding fresh vegetables to classic recipes. Spinach is not only a delicious choice; it is also a nutrient-rich ingredient, providing an important supply of vitamins and minerals to our body.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g short pasta (penne or fusilli are ideal)
- 500 g thawed spinach (or 300 g fresh spinach, washed and chopped)
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 large onion
- 50 g butter
- 200 ml cream (preferably cooking cream)
- 200 g cheese (preferably aged cheese that melts well)
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by Step: Your Guide to Baked Spinach Pasta

1. Preparing the water for pasta: In a large pot, bring cold water to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt for flavor and cover the pot with a lid. This will help the water boil faster, saving precious time.

2. Chopping the vegetables: In the meantime, peel the onion and garlic. Chop them finely to release their flavors, which will enrich the dish.

3. Sautéing the onion and garlic: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and slightly golden. This process will intensify the flavors.

4. Adding the spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thawed and well-drained. Add the spinach to the skillet, mixing it with the onion and garlic. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes, until the spinach is well heated. Season with nutmeg, basil, salt, and pepper, adjusting the taste to your preference.

5. Boiling the pasta: When the water starts to boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t leave them too long.

6. Mixing the ingredients: Once the pasta is ready, drain it and immediately mix it with the spinach mixture. This will help the pasta absorb the flavors of the spinach.

7. Preparing for the oven: Grease a baking dish with a little butter, then transfer the pasta and spinach mixture into it. Pour the cream evenly over the pasta, ensuring it covers the entire mixture well.

8. Adding the cheese: Grate the cheese and generously sprinkle it on top. It will melt and form a delicious golden crust during baking.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top becomes golden and crispy.

10. Serving: Once the pasta has been taken out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. You can add a drizzle of olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves on top for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Useful Tips and Tricks

- Fresh spinach: If you opt for fresh spinach, make sure to wash it well and cook it a few minutes longer until it wilts.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or red bell pepper for extra color and nutrients. You can also substitute the cheese with mozzarella for a softer texture.
- Recommended drinks: This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a fragrant herbal tea.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: Each serving contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the type of pasta and cheese used. Spinach provides a significant supply of iron, vitamins A and K, as well as antioxidants that contribute to overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option, rich in fiber.
- How can I make the recipe easier? You can use frozen spinach, which cooks quickly, and the pasta can be cooked while the vegetables are sautéing.
- Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, it is a completely vegetarian recipe and can be adapted for vegans by replacing the cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives.

I hope you will try this baked spinach pasta recipe and discover how easy it is to create a delicious meal, full of vitamins and flavors. Enjoy your meal!