Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce

The moment you taste the Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce, you’ll know you’ve found something special. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy afternoon, and I wanted something warm and comforting. I had a craving for pasta and a bunch of fresh spinach sitting in my fridge, so I decided to experiment. The result? A creamy, luscious sauce that clung perfectly to the pasta, vibrant with the green of spinach and infused with the aromatic presence of garlic. This dish quickly became a family favorite, and I know it will win your heart too.

What Goes Into Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce

The ingredients for Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce are simple yet effective. Each one plays a key role in creating a deliciously creamy sauce that coats your pasta perfectly. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why they work together.

• Fettuccine pasta: This is the backbone of the dish, providing the perfect base for the creamy sauce. You can substitute with spaghetti or any pasta you prefer.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a lovely flavor and helps cook the garlic to perfection.
• Garlic: Freshly chopped garlic adds a savory depth to the dish, infusing the sauce with its aromatic flavor.
• Spinach: Whether fresh or frozen, spinach is key for both nutrition and color in the sauce.
• Dairy-free cream: This makes the sauce creamy without dairy, perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
• Nutritional yeast: Imparts a cheesy flavor without using any cheese, giving the sauce an additional depth of flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, these are essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the sauce.

Step by Step Guide for Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce

Making Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce is as enjoyable as it is easy! Follow these steps for a delicious and creamy dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You want the pasta to be al dente, so keep an eye on it!

2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare your garlic. Peel and mince or finely chop three cloves. The aroma of cooking garlic will fill your kitchen, making it feel cozy and inviting.

3. If you’re using fresh spinach, wash and chop it finely. If you have frozen spinach puree, ensure it’s thawed before you proceed. This will help it blend seamlessly into the sauce.

4. Heat your non-stick frying pan or wok on medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Let it heat for a minute until shimmering, but not smoking.

5. Add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about one minute, stirring frequently until it’s fragrant but not browned. This step is crucial for releasing the delicious flavors!

6. Now it’s time to add the chopped spinach. Mix it in well, allowing it to wilt and incorporate with the garlic for about another minute. The vibrant green color will be a joy to see!

7. Next, pour in one cup of dairy-free cream and two tablespoons of nutritional yeast. Stir to combine and allow it to come to a gentle boil—this will take about one minute. The mixture should thicken slightly.

8. If you want an ultra-smooth sauce, take an immersion blender and blend the sauce right in the pan until you achieve your desired creaminess. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.

9. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and mix it directly into the creamy sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it all over with the Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce. You want every bit of pasta to be enveloped in that delicious sauce!

10. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra nutritional yeast or fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your creamy, satisfying meal with a smile!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many ways to put your spin on Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to use it.
• Pairing: Consider serving with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
• Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to add in vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Extra Seasoning: Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.

What to Serve With Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce

When it comes to serving Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delicious ideas to consider:

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread makes a perfect side. It’s great for dipping into the creamy sauce!
• Salad: A fresh mixed green salad or a Caesar salad works splendidly alongside the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add a hearty touch and balance the creaminess of the sauce.
• Grilled Chicken: For non-vegetarians, serve with a grilled chicken breast sliced over the pasta for added protein.
• Wine Pairing: A light sparkling water or iced tea complements the dish beautifully without overpowering it.
• Seasonal Occasions: This dish shines during family gatherings, casual dinners, or cozy nights in.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce stands out as a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for any meal. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a delightful addition to your dinner table. I encourage you to try making this sauce; it’s straightforward and packed with goodness. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!

Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Spinach Pasta Sauce is velvety and rich, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Made with fresh ingredients and a creamy base, this dish is a delicious way to please your palate. Try it tonight and taste the difference!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 380 kcal

Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan
• Food Processor
• Immersion hand blender
• Simple garlic press

Ingredients

  

• 4 servings Fettuccine pasta
• 1 Tbsp Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 7 oz Spinach
• 1 cup Dairy-free cream
• 2 Tbsp Nutritional yeast
• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper

Instructions

 

• Cook pasta in boiling water according to package instructions.
• Peel and mince or finely chop garlic cloves.
• If you use fresh spinach, chop it with a food processor into tiny pieces. If you use frozen spinach puree, let it thaw before using it.
• Heat a frying pan or wok on medium heat and add olive oil.
• Add minced/finely chopped garlic and stir. Saute for 1 minute.
• Add chopped spinach. Mix well and saute for 1 minute.
• Add heavy cream (we used a dairy-free version) and Parmesan (we used nutritional yeast). Stir well and bring it to a boil. Approx. another 1 minute.
• Take a long thin container and use an immersion blender to make it extra smooth and creamy. (You can skip this step if you don't mind small spinach bites.)
• Drain the cooked pasta and mix it with the creamy spinach sauce. Serve it while hot!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to use it.
• Pairing: Consider serving with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
• Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to add in vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Extra Seasoning: Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.

Keyword Creamy Spinach Pasta, Easy Pasta Sauce, Spinach Sauce Recipe, Vegan Spinach Pasta