Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo Recipe

As I tossed the creamy sauce with the penne, the aroma of garlic and nutmeg filled my kitchen, wrapping me in a cozy culinary hug. The addition of fresh spinach gave it a lively pop of color and a nutrient boost, and I couldn’t resist topping it off with some perfectly grilled shrimp for a little extra flair.

I love to create warm, elegant culinary dishes that grace the table, and Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo is one of my favorites. It combines tender penne with a velvety sauce made from heavy cream and Parmesan, and is an opulent blend of textures and flavors, enriched by fresh spinach.

A touch of nutmeg gives it an aromatic depth, while the option of a topping of grilled chicken or shrimp makes it a versatile dish even sure to delight.

Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo Recipe Ingredients

• Penne Pasta: Rich in carbohydrates, providing energy and a satisfying texture.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat with antioxidants and rich flavor.
• Garlic: Contains sulfur compounds, boosting immunity and enhancing flavor.
• Fresh Spinach: High in iron and vitamins K and A, adding color and nutrients.
• Heavy Cream: Provides richness, creaminess, and a touch of indulgence.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami depth and is rich in protein and calcium.

Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp for topping

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How to Make this Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo Recipe

1. Take a big pot and fill it with salted water, then bring that water to a boil. Pour in the penne pasta and let it cook until it’s just firm enough to bite into. Drain the pasta and put it aside.

2. In a big frying pan set over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add the chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute, till you can smell it.

3. Incorporate the diced spinach into the skillet and sauté until it has just wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the heavy cream, and stir gently as you bring this mixture to a simmer.

5. Lower the heat to low, then add in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring non-stop, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Dust with ground nutmeg and seasoning salt/tasting salt/black pepper (to taste). Stir to combine.

7. Incorporate the cooked penne into the skillet, tossing it gently in the sauce to ensure all pieces are coated evenly.

8. Combine the unsalted butter in the sauce until it is melted and thoroughly mixed in.

9. If you wish, you can top each serving with grilled chicken or shrimp.

10. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese. Serve. Preferably, serve with freshly ground black pepper.

Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Colander
3. Large frying pan (skillet)
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Chef’s knife
6. Chopping board
7. Measuring cups
8. Measuring spoons
9. Grater
10. Serving plates or bowls

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of pasta?You can indeed use any pasta you prefer in place of penne, including fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni.
• How can I make this dish gluten-free?Substitute gluten-free pasta for the various types of wheat pasta that can be used in this recipe to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Is it possible to use milk instead of heavy cream?Indeed, the result will be less creamy. If you want to experiment, try using half-and-half next time for a lighter alternative.
• Can I add vegetables to the dish?For added flavor and nutrition, you can certainly incorporate some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or diced tomatoes.
• How do I store leftovers?Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a gentle heat source such as the stove, and add a little cream or milk to the dish.
• What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?Equally, you’re welcome to use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano, both excellent substitutes that will yield similar results.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?You can make the sauce and cook the pasta a day ahead; then just combine and heat when you’re ready to serve. But really, the best is when you do it all in the same day, so grab a FORK and GET TO WORK.

Date Night Pasta Penne With Creamy Spinach Alfredo Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Penne pasta made with whole wheat can replace regular penne pasta to create a dish that is even more healthful than it already is.
Coconut oil can be used in place of olive oil and give a different flavor profile.
For a little twist in taste and texture, use baby kale or arugula instead of spinach.
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream can lighten up a sauce.
Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese if one desires a sharper taste.

Pro Tips

1. Pasta Cooking Tip: Cook the penne pasta until it’s *al dente* (firm to the bite) by following the package instructions but taste testing about 1-2 minutes earlier. This will give the dish a better texture, especially since the hot sauce will continue to cook the pasta slightly after mixing.