Artichoke and Spinach Pesto Pasta (27 Minutes)

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This delightful dish brings together the rich flavors of artichokes and spinach with the fresh taste of pesto. The combination of vegetables and pesto provides a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, while the addition of Pecorino Romano cheese adds a sharp, salty note that elevates the entire dish.

It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering where a tasty and satisfying meal is needed. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • Your choice of pasta
  • 1 jar (about 14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta (10-12 minutes): Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
  2. Sauté Garlic (2 minutes): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add Artichokes and Spinach (5 minutes): Add chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet and cook for a few minutes. Then, add the spinach and cook until it wilts.
  4. Combine with Pesto (3 minutes): Lower the heat, and add the pesto to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  5. Toss Pasta with Vegetables and Pesto (3 minutes): Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the artichoke, spinach, and pesto mixture. Toss well to coat, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  6. Serve with Cheese (2 minutes): Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a serving platter. Top with grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and optionally garnish with red pepper flakes and fresh basil.

Notes

This pasta dish is great for customizing to your taste. You can add other vegetables or even some grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

The key to this dish is to use good quality pesto and cheese, as they are central to the flavor. Enjoy your simple but delicious meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/artichoke-and-spinach-pesto-pasta-27-minutes/