Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta

 

Ingredients:

• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice): 400g (14 oz)

• Butter: 2 tablespoons

• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced

• Shallot (optional): 1 small, finely chopped

• Fresh spinach: 4 cups, chopped

• Artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained): 1 cup, roughly chopped

• Cream cheese: 225g (8 oz), softened

• Heavy cream: 1 cup

• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated

• Mozzarella cheese (optional): ½ cup, shredded

• Salt and pepper: To taste

• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): ¼ teaspoon

• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon

• Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Shallots:

• In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots (if using), and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Add Spinach and Artichokes:

• Stir in the chopped spinach and artichokes, cooking until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:

• Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese. Cook until the cream cheese melts and combines with the spinach and artichokes.

• Add the heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it.

5. Combine with Pasta:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy spinach and artichoke sauce. Ensure the pasta is well coated.

6. Optional Cheese Topping:

• If you like it extra cheesy, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top and let it melt for a minute or two.

7. Finish and Serve:

• Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your rich and flavorful Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta!