Pasta with spinach

Pasta with Spinach and Creamy Cheese Sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

A quick and healthy lunch can be both delicious and nutrient-rich. This recipe for pasta with spinach and creamy cheese sauce is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a meal full of vitamins and minerals without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy days, as well as for moments when you want to savor a tasty and comforting dish.

A bit of history
Pasta is a staple food in many cultures, with a history spanning thousands of years. It is often associated with comfort and community, being prepared on special occasions or in everyday life. Spinach also has its origins in warmer regions, appreciated for centuries for its nutritional benefits. In this recipe, the combination of whole grain pasta, garlic, and cheese will transform an ordinary lunch into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients
- 130 g short pasta (preferably whole grain)
- 150 g feta cheese or cheese of your choice
- 200 g baby spinach
- 50 ml milk
- 1 head of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the garlic: Start by cutting a few millimeters off the end of the head of garlic, where the roots are. Place the head on a piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle a little salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil on top. Gather the parchment paper around the garlic, forming a pouch, and tie it with a string to keep it closed.

2. Roasting the garlic: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the garlic pouch on a baking tray. Roast the garlic for about 30 minutes, until it becomes soft and fragrant. Once cooled, open the paper and peel the garlic cloves.

3. Cooking the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. Preparing the sauce: In a blender or with an immersion blender, add the diced cheese, milk, peeled garlic clove, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

5. Sautéing the spinach: In a large non-stick skillet (ideally a wok), add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the spinach for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. The spinach should remain crisp but slightly wilted.

6. Finishing the dish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the cheese sauce. Mix well so that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and spinach.

7. Serving: Place the pasta on plates and sprinkle sesame seeds on top, whether plain or lightly toasted in a dry pan for extra flavor.

Practical tips
- If you want a lower-calorie option, you can use cottage cheese instead of feta or cheese.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or diced zucchini, to enrich the dish.
- By replacing short pasta with long pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, you can completely change the appearance of the dish.
- For added flavor, you can toss in some toasted nuts or chopped black olives.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals. Spinach is an excellent source of iron and antioxidants, while cheese provides protein and calcium. Whole grain pasta offers fiber, essential for healthy digestion. A serving of pasta with spinach and cheese sauce contains approximately 550 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Of course! Feta or mozzarella can add a different note to the recipe.
- How can I make this recipe vegan?
Replace the cheese with a cashew sauce and use egg-free pasta to create a delicious vegan version.
- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade would perfectly complement this meal.

This recipe for pasta with spinach and creamy cheese sauce is not only simple and quick but also full of flavor and nutrients. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, it is guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy your meal!