Mediterranean Pasta with Sun-dried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Pine Nuts
This Mediterranean Pasta is an enchanting combination of flavors and textures, featuring al dente pasta tossed with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and toasted pine nuts, all brought together with a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
Ingredients
- 12 oz Pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup Sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 4 cups Fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup Pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer the pine nuts to a dish and set aside.
- In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is golden but not burnt.
- Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and sauté for another 2 minutes.
- Toss the fresh spinach into the skillet and cook until just wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to combine all ingredients. If the mixture seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and toasted pine nuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and give everything a final toss.
- Serve the Mediterranean Pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
To add a protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken strips or chickpeas.
The pasta can be served either warm or at room temperature, making it an excellent option for picnics or potlucks.