Green Spaghetti Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Healthy Pasta Dish

Green Spaghetti is a vibrant, healthy, and delicious pasta dish that combines the goodness of fresh greens with the comfort of spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet without compromising on flavor. The creamy, herb-infused sauce coats the pasta beautifully, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Let’s dive into the details!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start, gather the following equipment:

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Blender or food processor (for making the green sauce)
• Large skillet or pan
• Colander (for draining pasta)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Green Spaghetti:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Green Sauce:

• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (packed)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut cream for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for added texture)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Red chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves

How to Make Green Spaghetti Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti

1. Fill a large pot with water and add 1 tbsp of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
3. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and toss it with 1-2 tbsp of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Sauce

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts (if using).
2. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
3. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and heavy cream until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet.
2. Pour the green sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat every strand evenly.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese as desired.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the Green Spaghetti to serving plates or a large platter.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a touch of heat.

Variations

1. Vegan Green Spaghetti: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
2. Protein-Packed Green Spaghetti: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
3. Spicy Green Spaghetti: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Gluten-Free Green Spaghetti: Use gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Cooking Notes

• Use fresh herbs and greens for the best flavor. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can use frozen spinach (thawed and drained).
• Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Green Spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Pair it with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

• Toast the pine nuts or walnuts before blending for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
• For a smoother sauce, blend the ingredients for a longer time. For a chunkier texture, pulse briefly.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing tang.

Tips for the Best Green Spaghetti

1. Use high-quality olive oil for a richer taste.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta al dente is the way to go!
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning at every step to ensure a balanced flavor.

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
• Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
• Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make Green Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

2. Can I freeze the green sauce?
Absolutely! Freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream, Greek yogurt, or cashew cream as a substitute.

4. Is Green Spaghetti kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavor make it a great way to sneak greens into your kids’ meals.

Conclusion

Green Spaghetti is a delightful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant color and rich flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking your taste buds will thank you!

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