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Parmesan Spinach Pasta

A comforting pasta dish featuring ziti, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fresh spinach, inspired by nostalgic family memories.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 lb ziti
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 garlic cloves (freshly minced)
  • 1 1/2 tbsp flour
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 cup half and half
  • 3 tsp lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup parmesan (freshly grated)
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp parsley
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, or until fragrant.
  3. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic-butter mixture, stirring continuously for about 2–3 minutes until it turns light golden brown.
  4. Mix in the Chicken Stock: Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
  5. Add the Half and Half: Reduce heat to low and stir in the half and half until creamy.
  6. Season Up: Stir in the lemon juice, oregano, parsley, mustard powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  7. Incorporate the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach, stirring until wilted.
  8. Mix in the Pasta: Add the drained ziti to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated.
  9. Add the Parmesan: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan until melted and well combined.
  10. Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasonings to your liking before serving.

Notes

For a vegan version, use cashew cream instead of half and half and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta, spinach, parmesan, comfort food, Italian dish