Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound giganti pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Large skillet for cooking spinach and garlic
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the giganti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot. Add the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese, and stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is coated.
5. Add the cooked spinach and garlic to the pasta and stir until well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
5. Temperature:
N/A
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 400mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Giganti pasta can be substituted with any other large pasta shape, such as rigatoni or penne.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale or Swiss chard.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Substitute the spinach with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to salt the pasta water generously to add flavor to the pasta.
- Reserve some of the pasta cooking water to add to the sauce if it is too thick.
- Use fresh ricotta cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the pasta in a large serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pasta is too dry, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- If the pasta is too saucy, add more cooked pasta to absorb the excess sauce.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the pasta and spinach thoroughly to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Giganti pasta is a large, tube-shaped pasta that originated in Italy. Ricotta cheese is a staple in Italian cuisine and is commonly used in pasta dishes.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Greek