Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked whole wheat pasta, where creamy goat cheese melts into vibrant spinach, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to a cozy Italian kitchen. This quick and nutritious recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary escape that takes just 25 minutes to prepare, proving that gourmet dining can be both simple and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. The water should taste slightly salty, like seawater.
- Add the whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts and becomes bright green.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Return the pasta to the pot and add the sautéed spinach and garlic. Toss gently to combine.
- Crumble the goat cheese over the pasta and mix, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to create a light, creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, ensuring an even distribution of spinach and goat cheese.
Tips
- Salt Your Water Generously: The key to flavorful pasta starts with well-seasoned boiling water. It should taste like the sea to ensure your pasta is seasoned from the inside out.
- Don't Overcook the Spinach: Keep the spinach bright green and slightly crisp by sautéing it quickly. Overcooked spinach loses its vibrant color and nutritional value.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, smooth sauce that helps the cheese and seasonings cling to the pasta.
- Add Goat Cheese Off the Heat: Let the residual warmth of the pasta gently melt the goat cheese, preventing it from becoming grainy or separating.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after preparation. The melted goat cheese and wilted spinach are at their peak flavor and texture when served fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 376kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
