Tagliatelle with Cream and Spinach

Tagliatelle with Cream and Spinach: A Creamy Spring-Flavored Delight

Spring brings not only sunshine and flowers but also delicious and fresh ingredients. One of the most beloved combinations is that of tagliatelle pasta and spinach, a duo that perfectly blends creamy texture with the flavor of greens. In this recipe, we will transform simple tagliatelle into a culinary feast with the help of cream, cheese, and subtle flavors. It's a quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying pasta recipe. Let's embark on a gastronomic journey!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 pack of fresh tagliatelle (egg pasta, approximately 250 g)
- 1 carton of liquid cream 15% (approximately 200 ml)
- 1/2 pack of frozen spinach (whole leaves, approximately 250 g)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 200 g of cheese (preferably less salty)
- 4 cloves of garlic (thinly sliced)
- Salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the pasta: Put a large pot of water to boil, add generous salt (about 1-2 tablespoons), and when the water is boiling, add the tagliatelle. Cook according to the package instructions (usually between 4-6 minutes for fresh pasta). When al dente, drain them, but do not rinse under cold water; this will help maintain the flavor and texture.

2. Preparing the spinach: If using frozen spinach, place it in a pot of boiling water and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to thaw and retain its vibrant color. Drain well and chop finely with a knife. If you have fresh spinach, wash it well and cook it for a few minutes until wilted.

3. The creamy sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté gently until golden, being careful not to burn them (about 1-2 minutes). This step will add a delicious flavor to your sauce.

4. Adding the spinach: Once the garlic is sautéed, add the chopped spinach. Sprinkle a bit of salt and sauté everything for about 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently. Here you can also add a bit of freshly ground pepper and nutmeg to intensify the flavors.

5. Finishing the sauce: Once the spinach is ready, pour the liquid cream over the spinach and garlic mixture. Add the grated cheese and mix well. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.

6. The perfect combination: Add the cooked tagliatelle to the creamy sauce and mix everything carefully. Make sure each piece of pasta is well coated with the sauce.

7. Serving: Serve immediately, preferably on warm plates, to maintain temperature. You can garnish with a bit of freshly ground pepper or a few fresh spinach leaves for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips

- Spinach: If you have access to fresh spinach, it's ideal to use it, but frozen spinach is a convenient alternative. Make sure to thaw it well before using.
- Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese: feta or parmesan can offer a unique and intense flavor.
- Vegetarian option: This recipe is also perfect for those following a vegetarian diet, being rich in nutrients and plant proteins.
- Delicious combinations: You can complement your meal with a cherry tomato salad with basil and olive oil, or with a bottle of white wine that will perfectly complement the flavors of the pasta.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Tagliatelle with Cream and Spinach contains approximately:

- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can replace the tagliatelle with any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

2. How can I make the sauce even healthier?
You can use light cream or Greek yogurt instead of regular cream to reduce calories and fats.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using vegan pasta and vegan cheese, but you will also need to replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.

This recipe for tagliatelle with cream and spinach is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, perfect for a quick dinner during the week or for a special occasion! Enjoy every bite and savor the fresh flavors that spring has to offer!