Macarrão com Espinafre

Macarrão com Espinafre is a vibrant and nutritious Brazilian pasta dish that combines the earthy flavor of spinach with the comforting texture of pasta. This vegetarian meal is simple to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients, making it a delightful option for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Pasta (Fusilli or Penne) - 200 grams
• Fresh spinach - 150 grams
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Parmesan cheese - 50 grams, grated
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Red pepper flakes - 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Cherry tomatoes - 100 grams, halved

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the spinach.
5. Toss the pasta with the spinach, adding the reserved pasta water gradually to create a light sauce. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in iron and vitamins A and C from spinach, supporting immune health.
• High in fiber from whole grain pasta and vegetables, promoting digestive health.

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