I’ll never forget the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti. I was in my apartment, scrambling for something quick but healthy for dinner. I stumbled upon his recipe on YouTube and was immediately intrigued. Spaghetti, my favorite comfort food, dressed in vibrant green? Sounds like a win, right?
What I didn’t expect was how deeply satisfying it would be. The combination of greens-fresh spinach, kale, and a few secret herbs-left my taste buds dancing. Not only was it a burst of flavor, but I felt light, energized, and surprisingly full. That’s when I realized: this wasn’t just a dinner, it was a game changer.
Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti is a recipe that brings out the full potential of vegetables while keeping things fresh and comforting. It’s a green-packed dish that doesn’t compromise on taste, and it’s ridiculously simple to make.
Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Recipe
This recipe is a clever take on classic spaghetti, with an added punch of healthy greens. It’s not overly complicated, yet it manages to pack a ton of flavor. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Greens galore: You get a mix of spinach, kale, and herbs like basil, parsley, and mint.
- A creamy texture without the cream: The vegetables are blended to make a smooth, luscious sauce.
- Simple ingredients: You won’t need a lot of fancy items to make it.
I remember following this recipe step-by-step, only to find that the green pasta sauce looked even better than I expected. It’s full of vibrant hues and incredibly smooth-just the right texture to cling to the noodles.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of this dish is that the ingredients are easily available. You probably already have most of them in your fridge or pantry. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Spaghetti: Choose any type you like-whole wheat, gluten-free, or regular.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach is best for that silky texture.
- Kale: A handful of kale provides the earthy undertones.
- Garlic: Adds a punch of flavor to the green sauce.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and drizzling.
- Lemon: A bit of zest and juice to brighten up the greens.
- Parmesan: Freshly grated for a savory kick.
- Fresh herbs: Basil, mint, and parsley work wonders here.
- Chili flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat.
- Pine nuts (optional): For a nutty crunch, it’s a great addition.
The first time I prepped these ingredients, it felt like such a simple lineup. But once they came together, it was a whole different story.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti
Making this dish is almost too easy, but it’s the little details that make it shine. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Boil the pasta: Start by cooking your spaghetti in a large pot of salted water. You want it al dente, so keep an eye on it.
- Prepare the greens: While the pasta cooks, heat some olive oil in a pan. Toss in the garlic until fragrant, then add the spinach and kale. Cook just until they wilt.
- Blend the greens: Transfer the cooked greens into a blender or food processor. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Blend until smooth.
- Finish the sauce: Add a bit of pasta cooking water to the green sauce to loosen it up. Taste and adjust the seasoning-more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if you like it spicier.
- Toss everything together: Once your pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it with the green sauce. If you like, add some freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of pine nuts for texture.
I remember being amazed at how quickly this came together. Within 20 minutes, I had a bowl of vibrant, creamy spaghetti that didn’t weigh me down.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When you think about it, each of these ingredients does something special. Let’s dive into the science behind a few of them:
- Spinach and kale: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, they’re great for your skin, immune system, and bone health. These greens are rich in iron, too, which is crucial for red blood cell production.
- Garlic: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, garlic also boosts heart health. It has compounds like allicin, which may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Lemon: The acidity from the lemon brightens the greens, balancing out the earthy flavors and helping with digestion.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil and mint bring more than just flavor. They’re packed with antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect your cells from damage.
It’s crazy how much goodness these simple ingredients pack, and when combined in this dish, they work in harmony to keep your body feeling fueled and refreshed.
Expert Tips
If you want to take this dish to the next level, here are a few expert tips:
- Use good quality olive oil: This isn’t just for sautéing; drizzle some on top before serving to enhance the flavor.
- Blend the greens thoroughly: For a smoother, creamier sauce, blend the greens really well. A small amount of pasta water helps achieve that silky texture.
- Don’t overcook the greens: Wilt them just enough to preserve their nutrients. Overcooking can lead to a more bitter taste.
- Add a bit of starch: Save some pasta water to mix into the sauce. The starch helps it cling to the noodles, giving it a velvety finish.
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the dish for a complete meal.
I’ve tried variations of this dish, and the tips above have always made it better-whether it’s adding a little extra garlic or playing with the herbs.
Recipe Variations
While the classic version of this dish is amazing, there are a few ways to switch things up:
- Swap the greens: If you’re not into kale or spinach, you can use arugula or even Swiss chard for a peppery kick.
- Vegan version: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also try adding cashew cream for richness.
- Protein boost: Toss in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.
- Spicy touch: Stir in some fresh chili or chili paste for more heat. It balances the sweetness of the greens.
- Nuts and seeds: Add toasted sesame seeds or walnuts for texture and added flavor.
Every time I make this dish, I love experimenting with little tweaks. It’s versatile enough to adjust to whatever you’re in the mood for.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti is one of those recipes that surprises you. It’s simple, healthy, and satisfying, without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re trying to eat more veggies or just want a quick, fresh dinner, this dish has you covered.
The first time I made it, I was skeptical-could spaghetti really taste this good with greens? But after that first bite, I was hooked. The combination of creamy greens, fresh herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta is unbeatable.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti?
The main ingredients include spaghetti, spinach, peas, broccoli, and a variety of herbs like basil and mint.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Gluten-free?
Yes, just swap out regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta and you’re good to go.
How Can I Add More Protein To Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti?
You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some ricotta cheese for extra protein.