Description
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, the quest for the perfect balance between scrumptious and time-saving meals is a constant pursuit.
Picture this: a kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of cooking pasta, a symphony of flavors dancing in the air.
In the realm of easy recipes, where simplicity meets indulgence, I stumbled upon the easiest dinner solution that has become my go-to on busy weeknights – Instant Pot Spinach Pasta with Garlic.
This nutritious meal not only transforms into a creamy spinach pasta delight but is also a testament to the magic of pressure cooker pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 Teaspoon of Olive Oil
- 3 Cloves of Garlic Minced
- 2 cups of Spinach
- 10 ounces of Uncooked Pasta
- 2 cups of Tomato Sauce
- 1/2 cup of Part Skim Ricotta Cheese
- 1 cup of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 3/4 Teaspoon of Salt
- 2 cups of Water
Instructions
- Press sauté on your instant pot/electric pressure cooker. Once hot add in 1 teaspoon of olive oil and garlic and sauté for 1 minute of cooking time. Then hit the cancel button.
- Stir in 2 cups of water into your instant pot using a wooden spoon scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Add in your uncooked pasta, spinach, salt and tomato sauce and give it a good stir - try to cover all the pasta with sauce. Close the lid of the instant pot and press cook on high for 7 minutes.
- Open the lid when the pressure subsides - you can use the quick release to help relieve the high pressure. Once the pressure has released remove the lid and stir well. Add 2 dollops of ricotta cheese and your shredded mozzarella cheese - cover again with the lid until all melts.
- Ready to serve - serving size 1 1/2 cups
Notes
- Quality Ingredients:Use high-quality pasta, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Italian Seasoning:Enhance the taste with a generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an authentic touch.
- Chicken Broth Boost:Instead of plain water, use chicken broth to cook the pasta for added depth of flavor.
- Optimal Cook Time:Follow the recommended cook time for your pasta type; check the package instructions for guidance.
- Garlic Powder Magic:Add a pinch of garlic powder to infuse a savory garlic flavor throughout the dish.
- Natural Release:Allow a natural release of pressure after cooking to ensure pasta doesn't become mushy.
- Creamy Sauce Creation:Achieve a creamy sauce by stirring in a bit of heavy cream after pressure cooking.
- Pressure Cooking Perfection:Set the Instant Pot to the recommended pressure cooking time, ensuring pasta is al dente.
- Al Dente Pasta Technique:For perfect al dente pasta, slightly undercook it in the Instant Pot, as it continues to cook during natural release.
- Fresh Parsley Finishing:Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
- Softer Pasta Option:If you prefer softer pasta, add a minute or two to the cooking time.
- Savory Ground Sausage:Brown and add ground sausage for a savory meaty element to the dish.
- Mozzarella Melting Technique:Add mozzarella towards the end of the cooking process to ensure it melts perfectly.
- Balanced Tomato Sauce:Adjust the acidity of the tomato sauce with a pinch of sugar if needed.
- Flavor Layering:Layer the ingredients in the Instant Pot for even distribution of flavors.
- Seasoning Adjustments:Taste the dish before serving and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper accordingly.
- Mindful Instant Pot Usage:Familiarize yourself with the Instant Pot settings and functions for efficient use.
- Mixing Techniques:Gently mix the ingredients after cooking to blend the flavors without breaking the pasta.
- Airtight Container Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
- Reheating Tips:When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4.6 g
- Sodium: 491.5 mg
- Fat: 5.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 43.3 g
- Protein: 18.2 g
- Cholesterol: 16.2 mg