Spinach Dish with Pasta

Scandinavian Spinach Dish with Pasta Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Meal

Region / culture: Scandinavia | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This Spinach Dish with Pasta recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on a classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of spinach, pasta, and tomatoes. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

3 to 4 slices of bread, crust removed
125 g grated cheese
1 to 2 cloves of garlic
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp basil
salt
pepper
400 g frozen spinach leaves
150 g whole grain pasta
5 to 6 tomatoes, sliced
3 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine bread, cheese, garlic, and herbs.
Grease a baking tin and layer the bread mixture with spinach, pasta, and tomatoes.
Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and bake in a preheated oven at 225°C (440°F) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the surface turns golden brown.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta, for a different flavor profile.
Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to remove the crust from the bread to ensure a smooth texture in the dish.

- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can also be used in a pinch.

- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a glass of red wine.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which helps to meld the flavors together and create a crispy, golden-brown crust on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

- Substitute vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.

- Use fresh spinach instead of frozen, if preferred.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover with foil and bake as directed when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation, or garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This Spinach Dish with Pasta pairs well with a light and fruity red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot. A side salad with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing also complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Spinach Dish with Pasta contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body to function properly. The pasta and bread in this recipe are both sources of carbohydrates.

Fats

The olive oil in this recipe provides healthy fats that are essential for brain function and overall health. The cheese also adds a creamy texture and flavor to the dish.

Proteins

While this dish is not high in protein, the cheese and spinach provide some protein to help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Tomatoes are high in vitamin C and potassium, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the pasta and bread, as well as dairy from the cheese. If you have allergies to these ingredients, be sure to make substitutions as needed.

Summary

Overall, this Spinach Dish with Pasta is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This Spinach Dish with Pasta is a flavorful and nutritious meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Spinach Dish with Pasta. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was always full of surprises when it came to cooking, and that day was no exception.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in olive oil. Maria had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she motioned for me to come closer. "I have a new recipe to share with you today," she said with a smile.

Maria began by sautéing the garlic and onions until they were golden and fragrant. Then, she added a heaping pile of fresh spinach leaves to the pan. The spinach wilted quickly, releasing its vibrant green color and earthy aroma.

Next, Maria added a splash of white wine to the pan, letting it bubble and reduce slightly before tossing in cooked pasta. She stirred everything together with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

As Maria plated the dish and handed me a fork, I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The flavors were incredible - the sweetness of the onions, the sharpness of the garlic, the earthiness of the spinach, and the nuttiness of the Parmesan all came together in perfect harmony.

I savored each mouthful, letting the flavors dance on my taste buds. Maria watched me with a satisfied grin, knowing that she had once again introduced me to a culinary masterpiece.

After finishing our meal, Maria poured us each a glass of chilled white wine and settled back in her chair. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother," she began. "She used to make it for me when I was a little girl, and I've been making it ever since."

Maria went on to tell me about how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, creating delicious meals from simple ingredients. She passed down her love of cooking to Maria, who in turn was passing it down to me.

I left Maria's house that day feeling inspired and eager to recreate her spinach dish with pasta in my own kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients and followed the steps she had shown me, I could almost hear Maria's voice guiding me along.

The dish turned out just as delicious as when Maria had made it, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends, passing on the tradition that Maria had shared with me.

Over the years, I continued to make Maria's spinach dish with pasta, each time adding my own twist or variation to make it my own. I shared the recipe with anyone who would listen, eager to spread the joy and deliciousness that it brought into my life.

And so, this recipe for Spinach Dish with Pasta became more than just a dish - it became a symbol of the connections we make through food, the memories we create in the kitchen, and the love we share with each delicious bite. I am grateful to Maria for introducing me to this recipe, and for showing me how a simple dish can bring so much joy and connection to those we share it with.