Pasta with Broccoli-Spinach Butter

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Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Looking for a way to add a burst of flavor to your weeknight dinners?

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Pasta with Broccoli-Spinach Butter
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Total
15 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding salt to it.

  2. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it is al dente.

  3. Before draining the pasta, save 1/2 cup of the pasta water and set it aside. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside as well. Keep the pot for later use.

  4. In a food processor, combine the broccoli, spinach, parsley leaves and stems, garlic, 1 tablespoon of salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Pulse the mixture until it is finely chopped, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

  5. Add the butter to the food processor and continue to process the mixture until it is well combined, again stopping and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

  6. In the reserved pasta pot, melt 4 tablespoons of the broccoli-spinach butter over medium heat.

  7. Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the melted butter and stir until it is well combined. If needed, you can use the reserved pasta water to thin out the mixture, adding 1 tablespoon at a time.

  8. Divide the pasta among plates and season with salt and pepper if desired.

  9. For the remaining broccoli-spinach butter, you can either tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

About this recipe

Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Looking for a way to add a burst of flavor to your weeknight dinners? Look no further than this mouthwatering Pasta with Broccoli-Spinach Butter recipe. With its creamy, herb-infused sauce, this dish will take your taste buds on a flavor adventure.

The Secret to Flavorful Pasta

What sets this pasta dish apart is the rich, velvety sauce made from a delightful combination of broccoli and spinach. These nutrient-packed greens not only add a pop of color to the dish, but they also infuse it with a vibrant, earthy taste. The sauce is so delicious that even the pickiest eaters won't be able to resist!

But how do you make the perfect sauce? It's all about balance. You need just the right amount of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The broccoli and spinach add a healthy twist to the dish, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Preparing the Sauce

To make the sauce, start by sautéing minced garlic in melted butter until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the chopped broccoli and spinach to the pan and cook until they become tender. Once the greens are cooked, transfer them to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and your sauce is ready to be tossed with the pasta!

Choosing the Perfect Pasta

When it comes to pasta, the choices are endless. From spaghetti to penne to linguine, there's a shape to suit every taste. But for this recipe, we recommend using a short pasta like fusilli or rotini. These spiral-shaped noodles are perfect for holding onto the sauce, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor.

Remember to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. This way, you'll end up with perfectly cooked pasta that still has a slight bite to it.

In Conclusion

Pasta with Broccoli-Spinach Butter is a dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavors. With its creamy sauce and tender pasta, it's a meal that will satisfy both your taste buds and your hunger. So, why settle for ordinary pasta when you can elevate your dinner with this delightful recipe? Give it a try and experience pasta like never before!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen broccoli and spinach for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and work just as well in this dish. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking.

Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?

While Parmesan cheese adds a distinct flavor to the dish, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar effect.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan Parmesan cheese. The result will be just as delicious.

Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely! There are many gluten-free pasta options available in stores these days. Just make sure to check the label before purchasing.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Of course! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would all be great additions to this pasta dish. Simply cook your protein separately and toss it in with the pasta and sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy this pasta dish fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your personal taste.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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