Pasta with Spinach and Garlic with Quinoa and Rice

This Pasta with Spinach and Garlic, enhanced with quinoa and rice, offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining nutrient-rich ingredients for a wholesome meal. It's a comforting and satisfying option that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• Pasta (fusilli or penne) - 100 grams
• Quinoa - 50 grams
• Rice (white or brown) - 50 grams
• Fresh spinach - 150 grams
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Vegetable broth - 250 milliliters
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Parmesan cheese (optional) - 30 grams, grated

Steps

1. Rinse the quinoa and rice under cold water and set aside.
2. In a medium pot, bring 500 milliliters of salted water to a boil. Add the quinoa and rice, reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and grains are tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside when done.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
6. Combine the cooked quinoa, rice, and pasta with the spinach and garlic in the skillet. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper.
7. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
8. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 16 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in iron and vitamins from spinach, supporting overall health.
• Quinoa provides complete protein and essential amino acids.

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