This quick and satisfying pasta dish combines the savory crunch of fried pepperoni with the freshness of wilted spinach. The star of the show is a simple yet flavorful coating of garlic, olive oil, and fresh parmesan mixed with bread crumbs that clings perfectly to the pasta shells or penne. It’s a rustic, Italian-inspired meal that feels comforting and hearty without being overly heavy. Ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something with real flavor but donâÂÂt have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of salty meat, earthy greens, and cheesy garlic creates a balanced bite every time.
Pasta Toss With Spinach & Pepperoni
Description
This quick and satisfying pasta dish combines the savory crunch of fried pepperoni with the freshness of wilted spinach. The star of the show is a simple yet flavorful coating of garlic, olive oil, and fresh parmesan mixed with bread crumbs that clings perfectly to the pasta shells or penne. It&# 226;ÂÂs a rustic, Italian-inspired meal that feels comforting and hearty without being overly heavy. Ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something with real flavor but donâÂÂt have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of salty meat, earthy greens, and cheesy garlic creates a balanced bite every time.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
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While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add pepperoni slices and fry for 3-4 minutes until edges are crispy and browned.
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Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and chopped green onions, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add fresh spinach to the skillet and toss until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
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Drain pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
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Add drained pasta to the skillet with the spinach mixture.
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Sprinkle bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and lemon rind over the pasta.
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Toss vigorously, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time until the crumbs form a creamy, clinging sauce.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 758.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 41.4g64%
- Saturated Fat 12.0g60%
- Cholesterol 50.2mg17%
- Sodium 1238.8mg52%
- Total Carbohydrate 62.3g21%
- Dietary Fiber 10.5g42%
- Sugars 5.1g
- Protein 34.6g70%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
pasta, spinach, pepperoni, garlic, parmesan, bread crumbs, italian, quick dinner, vegetarian option, easy recipe, weeknight meal, penne, shells, olive oil, green onions, garlic cloves, crispy, comfort food, family friendly, simple ingredients, savory
