Casarecce Pasta with Spinach and Garlic combines the rustic charm of twisted Casarecce pasta with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic. Perfectly balanced and effortlessly delicious, it’s a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine. Craft this delicious meal from simple ingredients and be sure to tantalize your taste buds on busy weeknights or relaxing dinners for the whole family.
What is Casarecce Pasta
Casarecce pasta is a traditional Italian pasta variety known for its unique shape and versatile texture.
Its name, which translates to “homemade” or “home-style,” reflects its origins in Southern Italy, particularly Sicily. Casarecce pasta is characterized by its short, twisted shape, resembling a rolled-up scroll or small tube with a slight twist.
This shape is ideal for capturing and holding onto sauces, making it a popular choice for a wide range of dishes, from hearty ragùs to light herb-infused sauces. Its rustic appearance and ability to pair well with various ingredients make casarecce pasta a beloved staple in Italian cuisine.
What sauce to use for Casarecce?
Casarecce pasta pairs well with a variety of sauces, thanks to its unique shape that captures and holds onto sauce beautifully. Here are some delicious sauce options:
- Tomato-Based Sauces: Classic marinara sauce, arrabbiata sauce (spicy tomato sauce), or tomato basil sauce are fantastic choices. The twists and turns of casarecce pasta help cling to the rich flavors of the tomato sauce, creating a satisfying bite in every forkful.
- Creamy sauces like Alfredo, carbonara, or a simple garlic cream sauce add indulgent richness. The pasta’s texture holds up well to creamy sauces, creating a luxurious and comforting dish.
- The vibrant flavors of basil pesto pair wonderfully with casarecce pasta. The sauce coats each twist of pasta, infusing it with fresh herbaceous notes and a delightful nuttiness.
- Olive Oil-Based Sauces: For a lighter option, toss casarecce pasta with olive oil, garlic, and herbs such as parsley or basil. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Vegetable-Based Sauces: Sautéed vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be combined with olive oil, garlic, and a splash of white wine to create a flavorful sauce that complements casarecce pasta beautifully.
Ultimately, the best sauce for casarecce pasta depends on personal preference and the flavors you’re craving. Whether you prefer a traditional tomato sauce, a creamy indulgence, or a light and fresh herb-infused option, casarecce pasta’s versatile shape can accommodate a wide range of delicious sauces.
What ingredients do I need to make Casarecce Pasta with Spinach and Garlic
To make a delicious Casarecce Pasta with Spinach and Garlic, you will need the following ingredients:
Casarecce pasta, which has a twisted, S-shaped design that pairs perfectly with the sauce, olive oil for a smooth and flavorful base, and fresh spinach for a nutritious addition.
Further, fresh garlic cloves add a bold and aromatic essence, 1/4 cup reserved pasta water to help the sauce bind to the pasta, and salt and black pepper to season the dish to perfection.
How to make Casarecce Pasta with Spinach and Garlic
If you want to indulge in a mouth-watering dish, follow these detailed steps to create a perfect meal:
Start by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Cook the pasta al dente, and reserve a small amount of pasta water to use later.
Heat some extra virgin olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Cook the garlic for five minutes on low heat until it becomes fragrant and golden.
Next, add fresh spinach to the pan and cook for an additional ten minutes on medium-low heat until the spinach has wilted and become tender.Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to the mixture to enhance the flavors.
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss the pasta with the spinach and garlic mixture. You can use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
Enjoy your Casarecce Pasta with Spinach and Garlic. The garlic’s aroma and the spinach’s unique taste will make this dish a crowd-pleaser!
How to store Casarecce Pasta?
To store casarecce pasta and keep it fresh for future use, follow these simple steps:
- Allow the cooked pasta to cool completely if you’re storing leftovers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
- Once cooled, transfer the casarecce pasta to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to help preserve the pasta’s freshness.
- Store the sealed container or bag in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked pasta can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
- If you want to store the casarecce pasta for longer periods, consider freezing it. Spread the cooled pasta in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place it in the freezer until frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen pasta to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen pasta can last in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
- When you’re ready to use the stored pasta, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it by placing the pasta in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes until heated through, or microwave it with a bit of water or sauce until warm.
By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy delicious casarecce pasta whenever you crave it, whether as a quick weeknight meal or a hearty weekend feast.
Other pasta sauce recipes to try:
- Easy Vegan Rasta Pasta Recipe with creamy sauce
- Alfredo Sauce
- Keto Alfredo Sauce
- White Wine Pasta Sauce
- Lemon Pasta Sauce
If you like this delicious Casarecce Pasta Recipe, share your comments below or on Instagram and Facebook.
Enjoy, Florian.
Easy Casarecce Pasta Recipe with Spinach and Garlic
Yield: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Casarecce Pasta with Spinach and Garlic combines the rustic charm of twisted Casarecce pasta with the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic. Perfectly balanced and effortlessly delicious, it's a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine. Craft this delicious meal from simple ingredients and be sure to tantalize your taste buds on busy weeknights or relaxing dinners for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 16 oz Casarecce pasta
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 15 oz spinach
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup pasta water, reserved
- salt, black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by boiling your pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Cook the pasta al dente, and reserve a small amount of pasta water to use later.
- Heat some extra virgin olive oil in a pan and add minced garlic. Cook the garlic for five minutes on low heat until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Next, add fresh spinach to the pan and cook for an additional ten minutes on medium-low heat until the spinach has wilted and become tender.Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to the mixture to enhance the flavors.
- Finally, add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss the pasta with the spinach and garlic mixture. You can use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it's too thick.
Notes
- Allow the cooked pasta to cool completely if you're storing leftovers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy.
- Once cooled, transfer the casarecce pasta to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to help preserve the pasta's freshness.
- Store the sealed container or bag in the refrigerator. Properly stored, cooked pasta can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 380Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 224mgCarbohydrates: 43gFiber: 5gSugar: 1gProtein: 10g
