Indulge in a delightful Italian feast with our irresistible Gemelli with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Mozzarella! This vibrant dish not only bursts with flavor but also showcases the perfect harmony of fresh ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that serves four, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious? Dive into our recipe and discover the secrets to creating this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz gemelli pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the gemelli pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften and release their juices.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot.
- Add the sautéed mushrooms and tomatoes to the pasta. Gently fold in fresh spinach, allowing the residual heat to wilt the leaves.
- Add cubed mozzarella and gently stir to distribute throughout the pasta. The heat will slightly melt the cheese.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, ensuring an even distribution of vegetables and cheese.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve that ideal al dente texture, be sure to stir the gemelli pasta occasionally while it cooks. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest spinach and mushrooms you can find for the best flavor and texture. Organic produce can make a noticeable difference!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preference, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to give the dish a personal touch.
- Cheese Choice: For an extra cheesy experience, consider using a mix of mozzarella and parmesan. This adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! Adding a splash can help create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, so have your bowls ready and serve while everything is warm and gooey!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
