As a pasta lover, I’m excited to share with you my favorite Asiago Pasta recipe. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serving Size: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It
I adore this recipe because it combines the richness of Asiago cheese with the simplicity of spaghetti, making it a crowd-pleaser. The addition of garlic and Italian seasoning gives it a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Asiago cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil Pasta: Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Prepare Sauce: In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Make Roux: Whisk in flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook until golden brown.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Add Asiago cheese and stir until melted.
- Add Spinach: Add spinach and ¼ cup of pasta water if needed. Cook until spinach is wilted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with Asiago cheese and parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Serve as a standalone dish or pair with grilled chicken or fish.
- Side Dish: Perfect alongside roasted vegetables or as part of a buffet.
Tips for Customization
- Add Protein: Include cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Veggie Delight: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
FAQs
Q: What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
A: Spaghetti works well, but you can also use other long noodles like linguine or fettuccine.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese?
A: While Asiago is preferred for its nutty flavor, you can substitute with Parmesan or a mix of cheeses for a different taste.
Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
A: Add a bit more pasta water or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy your delicious Asiago Pasta!