Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. vermicelli pasta
- 1 lb. fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet for cooking spinach
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- Whisk for stirring cheese sauce
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook vermicelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
6. Add grated Parmesan cheese and ricotta cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked pasta, spinach, and cheese sauce in a large bowl and toss until well combined.
8. Serve hot and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve hot
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 650
- Fat: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Protein: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute vermicelli pasta with any other long pasta such as spaghetti or linguine.
- Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
- Substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese such as Gruyere or Fontina.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent it from burning or clumping.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large pasta bowl for a rustic look.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or additional Parmesan cheese.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more heavy cream to thin it out.
- If the pasta is too dry, add more cheese sauce or a drizzle of olive oil.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to wash spinach thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
Food history:
- This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main course for dinner or as a side dish for a larger meal.
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Region: Italian