Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach is a delicious and simple Italian pasta dish that combines garlic, olive oil, and spinach for a flavorful and nutritious meal. This variation on the classic “aglio e olio” adds fresh spinach, providing extra nutrients and a vibrant green color to the dish. With just a few ingredients, this pasta is quick to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti: 12 ounces (whole wheat for added fiber, if preferred)
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup, high-quality extra-virgin for the best flavor
- Garlic: 5 cloves, thinly sliced (or more, to taste)
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste for a hint of spice
- Spinach: 3 cups, fresh and roughly chopped
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Parmesan Cheese: For serving (optional, for a vegetarian option)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Add the red pepper flakes and chopped spinach, stirring until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic, spinach, and olive oil mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the pasta is coated and the ingredients are well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra red pepper flakes for garnish.
Nutritional Information:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 400 kcal |
Protein | 12g |
Fat | 18g |
Carbohydrates | 50g |
Fiber | 5g |
Vitamin C | 35% of daily value |
Iron | 10% of daily value |
Health Benefits of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a healthy addition to any meal plan. Here are some of the key health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Spinach is high in antioxidants, particularly vitamins C and E, which help combat oxidative stress and support immune health. The olive oil also contains healthy fats and antioxidants, contributing to heart health.
- Supports Digestive Health: Garlic contains prebiotic fibers that support a healthy gut microbiome, while the fiber in spinach and whole wheat pasta (if used) aids digestion.
- Good Source of Iron: Spinach provides iron, an essential mineral for energy production and oxygen transport in the body. The addition of Vitamin C helps improve iron absorption.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach
- Use Fresh Garlic: The key to achieving the best flavor in this dish is fresh garlic. Thinly slicing the garlic allows it to cook evenly, releasing its aromatic qualities into the olive oil.
- Choose High-Quality Olive Oil: Since this dish relies on minimal ingredients, high-quality extra-virgin olive oil enhances the flavor and gives the dish a luxurious mouthfeel.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Al dente pasta holds up better in the skillet and provides a satisfying texture, especially with the added spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile pasta dish pairs well with various sides and accompaniments:
- With a Salad: Serve alongside a crisp, mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- With Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- With Bread: Serve with a side of crusty Italian bread to soak up any remaining garlic-infused oil.
Variations and Customizations
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach is highly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on taste and dietary needs. Here are some popular variations:
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Toss in a handful of halved cherry tomatoes along with the spinach for a pop of color and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Make it Vegan: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Add Protein: For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or canned chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Extra Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach is a quick and easy recipe that requires only a handful of ingredients yet delivers a rich, satisfying taste. The simple combination of garlic, olive oil, and spinach creates a beautifully balanced dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The addition of spinach not only enhances the flavor but also adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthier option compared to traditional pasta dishes.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fast but flavorful, and it can be adjusted easily to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet in an enjoyable way.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach is an elevated take on a classic Italian pasta dish. With the addition of spinach, this recipe not only offers a fresh twist but also provides essential nutrients. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a healthy, delicious meal that doesn’t require complex ingredients or long preparation time. This dish exemplifies the beauty of Italian cooking, where a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight meal or for a gathering with friends, this pasta is sure to impress.
The natural flavors of garlic and olive oil shine in this dish, and the spinach adds a nutritious component that makes each bite more satisfying. Enjoy this delicious pasta with your favorite sides, and savor the taste of Italian-inspired simplicity at its finest.
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