Simple Pasta Shells with Vegetables

This is a simple pasta dish that is quick and easy,  Most of all very flavorful.  I usually pair this with my Lemon, Garlic, Thyme Shrimp to make it full meal.  I remember the evening my family wanted to go out to dinner because they said it will take too much time to cook.  I just did not feel like eating out – we go to the same set of restaurants every time (gets boring).  Needless to say both dishes were a hit.

Simple Pasta Shells with Vegetables

Simple Pasta Shells with Vegetables

This is a healthy, quick and simple pasta and vegetable dish. Fresh flavors and vegetables.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Pasta and Vegetables, Simple Pasta
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Calories: 338kcal
Author: Julietkitchen By Chef Yasmin

Ingredients

  • 8 ounce medium pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt to add to pasta water
  • 4 quarts water
  • 2 cups baby spinach (packed)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoon cilantro (& extra for Garnish) roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated (Optional)

Instructions

  • In a six quart pot add the water and the tablespoon salt and bring to a boil
  • Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (I like the pasta Al Dente)
    Set aside the pasta once done
    Note - reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use
  • While the pasta is cooking, cut the tomatoes in half
    Thinly slice the garlic and chop the cilantro roughly
  • In a six quart dutch oven pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat
  • Add the garlic to the hot oil and cook for about a minute just until it's fragrant (do not brown the garlic)
  • Add the spinach and cook until it starts to wilt, about a minute and a half (use a wooden spoon to incorporate it with the garlic and cilantro as it is wilting)
  • Add the tomatoes and cook for about a minute
  • Add the salt and pepper 
  • Add the pasta and mix to coat it with the vegetables. (I was light with the salt and pepper in this recipe - I recommend tasting and add a little more if you need it)
  • Turn off the stove and add the parmesan cheese if using
  • Optional: If the pasta appears dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water.  
    Garnish with cilantro and serve
    Enjoy!

Notes

In this recipe I use cilantro, however, you can use parsley.  

Nutrition

Calories: 338kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 2321mg | Potassium: 325mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1711IU | Vitamin C: 13mg | Calcium: 175mg | Iron: 2mg
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3 Comments Add yours

  1. Cathy Beck says:

    I love your blog! Can’t wait to start cooking! -Cathy

     
    1. julietkitchen says:

      Thanks so much much Cathy. Your comments and feedback are welcome for any of the recipes you try.

       
  2. I love this easy recipe!! I’m going to try it with some grilled chicken!! Keep up the good work!! Love your blog!! 😄

     

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