Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces ditalini pasta; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/3 cup pesto sauce; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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This dish brings together the robust flavors of tender spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, and vibrant pesto, all entwined with ditalini pasta. The pasta’s unique tubular shape captures all the goodness creating a pasta experience that’s both comforting and delightful. With just a few quality ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you’ll have a delicious Italian-inspired meal on your table that’s sure to impress. Let’s begin!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 ounces ditalini pasta
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup pesto sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Begin by cooking the ditalini pasta in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, drain and set aside.
In a separate pot, blanch the fresh spinach in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain and chop the cooked spinach.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ditalini pasta, chopped cooked spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Gently fold in the pesto sauce until the pasta and ingredients are coated evenly.
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a well-balanced and delightful flavor profile.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Notes

Feel free to elevate the dish’s texture by adding toasted pine nuts or crushed almonds if desired. For a protein boost, consider tossing in some Italian sausage or sautéed shrimp. If you have the time, you can make your own pesto from scratch, using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil. Serve with a side of crusty bread or simple salad. Enjoy!

Chef’s tip: Drizzle a touch of extra-virgin olive oil before serving for an added layer of richness.

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