WHOLE WHEAT PASTA WITH GARLIC AND SPINACH
This Whole Wheat Pasta with Garlic and Spinach is a nourishing and flavourful dish that’s quick to prepare and loaded with health benefits. The whole wheat pasta provides fibre and complex carbohydrates, while the sautéed spinach in salt and olive oil adds essential vitamins and minerals. The garlic and olive oil give the dish an aromatic depth, making it simple and satisfying. This meal is perfect for busy days when you need something light yet fulfilling. It can be enjoyed as a quick dinner, a wholesome lunch or a meal-prep option for the week. Serve Whole Wheat Pasta with Garlic and Spinach on its own or pair it with grilled vegetables, chickpeas or lean protein for a well-rounded dish. Whether you follow a vegan diet or love healthy pasta dishes, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Italian, Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Boil, Sauté, Toss
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Healthy Eating, Meal Prep
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegetarian, Vegan, High Fibre, Dairy Free, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Pasta, Main Dish
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Whole Wheat Pasta with Garlic and Spinach:
- ¼ cup whole wheat pasta
- ½ cup spinach, sautéed
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Protein: 5.8 g
- Carbohydrates: 32.6 g
- Sugars: 1.2 g
- Fibre: 5.4 g
- Fat: 4.8 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Potassium: 230 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Whole Wheat Pasta with Garlic and Spinach:
- Cook The Pasta: Boil water in a saucepan, add a pinch of salt, and cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté The Garlic: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium flame, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook The Spinach: Add the spinach to the pan, season with salt and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
- Serve And Enjoy: Remove from heat and serve warm as a light and nutritious meal.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS
Here are some tips for Whole Wheat Pasta with Garlic and Spinach:
- More Flavour: Add red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest.
- Extra Protein: Toss in chickpeas, grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a protein boost.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in a teaspoon of hummus or tahini for a creamy finish.
- Crunch Factor: Garnish with toasted nuts or seeds for added texture.
- Serving Options: Pair with a fresh side salad or serve with a slice of whole grain bread.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Version: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Twist: Top with nutritional yeast or grated vegan cheese.
- Pesto Alternative: Swap garlic for a pesto sauce for a herby variation.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms along with the spinach for an earthy flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as spinach can become soggy upon thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the pasta.