Pasta with Spinach and Wild Garlic

This delicious pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of spinach and the unique taste of wild garlic, creating a delightful and healthy meal. The creamy sauce is perfectly balanced with the zing of lemon and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Pine nuts add a lovely crunch, while the touch of butter melds everything together smoothly. This recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate greens into your meal without compromising on flavor. It's easy to prepare, making it suitable for both busy weeknights and cozy weekend dinners. You will enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh aromas as you cook. The result is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for sharing with family and friends. For a complete meal, pair it with your favorite side dish or a simple salad. Impress your guests with this wonderful and aromatic pasta experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Pasta of your choice
1 large bunch of wild garlic leaves
1 large handful of spinach
1 handful of pine or cedar nuts
1 piece of butter
Juice of one lemon
Grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated lemon zest

Spices and Sauces:

Olive oil for cooking
Salt
Ground black pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Greens: Finely chop the wild garlic leaves, removing stems, and do the same for the spinach. Set aside.
Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat, then melt a cube of butter until it’s frothy.
Cook the Greens: Add the chopped wild garlic and spinach to the pan. Stir occasionally and sauté over low heat for about 10 minutes, or until the leaves are soft.
Add Flavor: Grate some lemon zest and squeeze in the lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let it continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Boil the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the wild garlic sauce. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Garnish: Serve the pasta on plates, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts.
Serving: Enjoy your pasta warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

Tips

Substitutions: Swap pine nuts for walnuts or omit if nut-free.
Techniques: Adjust the lemon juice to your liking for a more or less tangy flavor.
Storing: This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 15g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 50g

Variations

For a protein boost, add diced chicken or shrimp.
Make it vegan by using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and plant-based butter.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
Beverages: A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish well.
Garnish: Sprinkle with extra pine nuts and fresh herbs like basil for added flavor.

Best Places

Osteria Francescana - An elegant spot renowned for its modern Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella, Modena, Italy.
Trattoria Mario - Authentic Italian eatery famous for its pasta dishes. Location: Via Rosina, Florence, Italy.
Noma - World-renowned restaurant focusing on foraged ingredients. Location: Refshalevej, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Masa - High-end dining experience with a unique twist on traditional dishes. Location: Columbus Circle, New York, USA.
El Celler de Can Roca - Recognized for its creativity in Catalan cuisine. Location: Can Sunyer, Girona, Spain.
Gaggan - Renowned for its progressive Indian cuisine. Location: Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand.
The French Laundry - Celebrated for its refined contemporary American dishes. Location: Washington Street, Yountville, USA.
Quintonil - Known for innovative Mexican flavors. Location: Newton, Mexico City, Mexico.
Central - Offers a menu inspired by the diversity of Peruvian ingredients. Location: Santa Isabel, Lima, Peru.
Mugaritz - Experimental cuisine highlighting local ingredients. Location: Aldura Aldea, Gipuzkoa, Spain.