Pasta with Spinach and Walnut Sauce

Introduction

If you're looking for a flavorful pasta dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, pasta with spinach and walnut sauce is an excellent choice. This recipe combines the rich, earthy flavors of fresh spinach with the subtle nuttiness of walnuts, creating a creamy, vibrant sauce that beautifully coats the pasta. The addition of crushed walnuts adds a delightful crunch, contrasting perfectly with the silky texture of the sauce.

Spinach is the star ingredient in this dish, bringing a fresh and slightly sweet taste that balances well with the robust flavor of the walnuts. It’s a simple yet sophisticated pasta dish, perfect for both a quick weeknight dinner and a more elegant weekend meal. Let’s explore how to prepare this delightful dish from scratch!

Ingredients:

To make this flavorful pasta with spinach and walnut sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• 400 grams of your favorite pasta (such as spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
• 200 grams of fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
• 1/2 cup of walnuts (lightly toasted)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup of vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup of plant-based or regular cream
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh spinach leaves and crushed walnuts (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the spinach and walnut sauce.

Step 2: Toasting the Walnuts

While the pasta is cooking, place the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast the walnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure they don’t burn. The walnuts should become fragrant and slightly golden. Once toasted, remove the walnuts from the heat and set them aside to cool.

Step 3: Sautéing the Garlic and Spinach

In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can result in a bitter flavor.

Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir the spinach until it wilts down, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the spinach is fully wilted, season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Making the Spinach and Walnut Sauce

Transfer the wilted spinach, toasted walnuts, and garlic mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the vegetable broth and blend until smooth, creating a creamy green sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a bit more broth or the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Once the sauce is blended, return it to the skillet over low heat. Stir in the cream and lemon juice, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Combining the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the spinach and walnut sauce. Toss the pasta gently to ensure each strand is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and make it silkier.

Let the pasta sit in the sauce for a minute or two so that it absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with a sprinkle of crushed toasted walnuts and a few fresh spinach leaves for a pop of color. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice over the top for extra brightness and flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For added texture and flavor, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.

Additional Tips:

• Walnut Variations: While this recipe uses walnuts as the primary nut, you can experiment with other nuts like almonds, pecans, or even pine nuts if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

• Spinach Substitutes: If you don’t have spinach on hand, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just make sure to sauté them until tender before blending them into the sauce.

• Extra Flavor: For an additional depth of flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh basil or parsley to the sauce when blending. These herbs will give the sauce a fragrant, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the spinach.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, the pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its original consistency, as it may thicken slightly when chilled.

The spinach and walnut sauce can also be made in advance and stored separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

Pasta with spinach and walnut sauce is a delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy spinach sauce, enriched by the nutty taste of toasted walnuts, makes for a satisfying and nourishing meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a special dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The fresh, vibrant sauce paired with the crunchy walnuts creates an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it out and enjoy the delicious harmony of spinach and walnuts!