Angel Hair with Garlic Spinach and Marinara

“Transport your taste buds to Italy with this delightful dish of Angel Hair with Garlic Spinach and Marinara. Tender angel hair pasta, bathed in a luscious marinara sauce infused with fragrant garlic, basil, and a hint of spice, is nestled atop a bed of vibrant spinach leaves. This recipe combines simplicity with sophistication, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper, this dish is a celebration of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress any palate. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with loved ones, this recipe brings the warmth and comfort of Italian cuisine to your table.”

Angel Hair with Garlic Spinach and Marinara

Ingredients:

1 lb angel hair

1 tablespoon salt

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 to 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine

1 (15-ounce) can Hunts diced tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon sugar

Sprinkle of salt and pepper

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 chicken bouillon cube

1 (10-ounce) package baby spinach

Extra virgin olive oil, about 1/3 cup

1 cup hot pasta water

Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1:

Put water on to boil for pasta, add the salt.

Prepare the marinara by pouring olive oil into a medium saucepan.

Add the garlic to the oil and sizzle only for 30 seconds; do not brown the garlic.

Add the can of diced tomatoes, basil, sugar, and salt and pepper.

Step 2:

Bring the sauce to a gentle boil; add the crushed red pepper flakes and the bouillon cube.

Let simmer for about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 3:

Place the spinach into a large pasta bowl. (A (6-8-ounce) package will work also, if you don’t want too much spinach.)

When pasta is done “al dente”, lift it right out of the pasta water onto the spinach.

Step 4:

Add about 1 cup of the pasta water; this with wilt the spinach nicely.

Next, add more olive oil, about 1/3 cup.

Step 5:

Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta and toss evenly.

Sprinkle about 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 6:

Garnish with corase black pepper.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Angel Hair Cooking: Cook the angel hair pasta al dente according to package instructions for optimal texture.

Marinara Preparation: Be cautious not to brown the garlic when sautéing it in olive oil to avoid a bitter taste in the marinara sauce.

Sauce Simmering: Let the marinara sauce simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Spinach Quantity: Adjust the amount of baby spinach based on personal preference; a smaller package can be used if desired.

Wilted Spinach: Adding hot pasta water to the spinach helps wilt it without overcooking, retaining its vibrant color and texture.

Extra Olive Oil: Adding additional olive oil to the pasta helps enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, creating a silky finish.

Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Garnish: Sprinkle coarse black pepper over the dish just before serving to add a pop of flavor and visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy with a glass of wine for a truly indulgent dining experience.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute angel hair pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

Absolutely, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply chop them and adjust the cooking time accordingly to allow them to break down and form a sauce.

Is there a substitute for chicken bouillon cube?

If you prefer, you can use vegetable broth or stock instead of chicken bouillon cube for a vegetarian option.

Can I omit the sugar from the marinara sauce?

Yes, you can omit the sugar if you prefer a sauce with less sweetness.

Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh baby spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the pasta.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken bouillon cube and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is there a way to reduce the sodium content of this dish?

You can use low-sodium chicken broth or omit the chicken bouillon cube to reduce the sodium content.

Also, taste the dish before adding additional salt to avoid oversalting.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinara sauce and cook the pasta in advance.

Reheat the sauce and toss it with the pasta just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This pasta dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.