Craving a pasta dish that's both vibrant and effortlessly delicious? Look no further than this easy Lemon Spinach Pappardelle Pasta recipe! This recipe delivers a burst of fresh, bright flavors in every bite, combining the rich texture of pappardelle pasta with the delightful tang of lemon and the earthy goodness of spinach. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is surprisingly quick and simple to make, perfect for a weeknight meal or a delightful weekend lunch. The creamy sauce, infused with lemon zest and garlic, coats the pasta perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
This irresistible combination of ingredients will have you hooked from the first forkful. Ready to experience the magic of this simple yet satisfying pasta dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this delectable Lemon Spinach Pappardelle Pasta.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Pan
- Freezer bag
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Pappardelle pasta (Trader Joe's)
- Grilled chicken
- Lemon pepper seasoning
- Lemon juice
- McCormick chicken seasoning
- Organic baby spinach
- Crushed garlic
- Pepper
- Alfredo pasta sauce
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Salt
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Pasta
- Boil the pasta for about eight minutes until al dente.
- Chop the grilled chicken.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Spinach
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a pan.
- Add crushed garlic and saute for a bit.
- Add rinsed spinach, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Set aside.
- Saute the chicken with a little more garlic and olive oil.
Step 3. Create the Sauce and Combine
- Add Alfredo sauce; add water if needed to adjust consistency.
- Add spinach and pasta to the sauce. Mix well.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Season with salt and lemon pepper to taste.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Grill extra chicken and freeze it for easy meal prep.
- Cooking spinach separately preserves its flavor and prevents overcooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 70-85g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While pappardelle is ideal for its wide, flat shape that holds the sauce well, you can substitute with other wide pasta shapes like fettuccine or tagliatelle.
2. What can I substitute for fresh spinach?
Frozen spinach works well too! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce. Baby kale or other leafy greens could also be used.
This Lemon Spinach Pappardelle Pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish. With its bright flavors and satisfying texture, it's sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy this quick, easy, and incredibly delicious pasta creation!