A nutritious powerhouse, spinach enhances every dish with a vibrant color and a plethora of health advantages. When attempting to increase the amount of greens in their diet, spinach is a go-to item due to its high vitamin content and adaptability in the kitchen. Whether you like filling dishes or lighter fare, these three delectable spinach recipes will satisfy your hunger and support a healthy lifestyle.
1. Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (or your preferred type)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Follow the directions on the package to cook the pasta. After draining, set away.
2. Heat the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, cut into pieces, and cook until transparent.
3. When the mushrooms are soft and golden brown, add the minced garlic and sauté the slices.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves and stir; simmer until the spinach wilts.
5. After adding the heavy cream, boil the liquid for a few minutes, or until it slightly thickens. Add pepper and salt for seasoning.
6. Once the pasta is ready, toss it into the skillet and stir until the creamy sauce made of mushrooms and spinach coats the pasta well.
7. Before serving, top with fresh parsley and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
2. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions:
1. Turn the oven on to 375°F, or 190°C.
2. Gently cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise, taking care not to cut all the way through.
3. Crumble the feta cheese and add the fresh spinach leaves to a dish. Place toothpicks inside each chicken breast after stuffing it with the spinach and feta mixture.
4. Apply a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, dried oregano, and garlic powder on the exterior of the chicken breasts.
5. After placing the filled chicken breasts on a baking dish, bake them for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a golden brown color.
6. Before serving, take the toothpicks out. For a full supper, serve with roasted veggies or a side salad.
3. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Set the oven's temperature to 175°C/350°F.
2. As directed on the packaging, prepare the large pasta shells. After draining, let them cool a little.
3. Add the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, salt, and pepper to a mixing bowl.
4. Line the bottom of a baking dish with a thin layer of marinara sauce.
5. Place the filled pasta shells on the baking dish after stuffing each one with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
6. Over the filled shells, drizzle the leftover marinara sauce and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake the dish for twenty-five minutes with the foil covering it. After removing the foil, bake for a further ten minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and melted.
8. Add some fresh basil as a garnish before serving.
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