Hey there, foodie friends!
I don’t know about you, but as the leaves start falling and the days get cooler, I find myself wanting something warm and comforting for dinner on those cozy evenings in. And what screams comfort more than a creamy pasta dish? Well, today I’m thrilled to share my new favorite recipe with you: Ham and Spinach Alfredo! It’s like an upgrade to your classic Alfredo, with extra nutrients and flavor packed in. Plus, it fits right into our “Healthy Food Recipes” category because we know you’re here to love your meals while loving your health.
So, grab a comfy seat in the kitchen (or maybe just a cozy apron) and let’s get cooking!
### Ingredients:
– 8 oz of your favorite pasta (I love using whole wheat or chickpea pasta for a healthier twist)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cooked ham, diced (Feel free to use leftover ham!)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 cup cauliflower, steamed and blended until smooth (our secret Alfredo base!)
– 1 cup milk of choice (almond, skim, you name it!)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pinch of nutmeg (optional but delightfully warming)
– Fresh parsley for garnish
### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Start off by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Trust me, it can work wonders in case we need to tweak that sauce consistency later on!
2. **Start the Sauce Base:** In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it get nice and fragrant. If only we had smell-o-vision — the aroma of garlic sizzling is unbeatable!
3. **Add the Good Stuff:** Stir in the diced ham. Let it get a little crispy around the edges, which shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes, before adding in the spinach. Let the spinach wilt down and pretend you’ve got a green thumb (in the kitchen!).
4. **Blend Your Alfredo Alternative:** So, here’s our healthy secret: using cauliflower! Blend your steamed cauliflower with the milk until smooth and creamy. This clever swap is a sneaky way to introduce more veggies while keeping that rich texture we adore.
5. **Bring it All Together:** Pour the cauliflower mixture into the pan with ham and spinach. Stir in Parmesan cheese, which will melt into a creamy, dreamy sauce. Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels a bit thick, here’s where that reserved pasta water comes in. Add little by little until you reach your desired consistency.
6. **Marry the Pasta and Sauce:** Stir in the cooked pasta and make sure every strand gets coated with that luscious sauce! Give it a taste — do a happy dance if needed! If you’re anything like me, tasting is the best part.
7. **Garnish & Serve:** Sprinkle fresh parsley over top for that pop of color and freshness. Now, take a moment to step back, admire your creation, and snap that Insta-worthy shot before your family or friends dig in!
### Extra Tips:
– **Protein Punch:** Looking for a protein boost? Throw in some grilled chicken instead of ham.
– **Cheese Swap:** Not a fan of Parmesan? Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option can work just as beautifully.
– **Get Creative:** Swap spinach with kale or chard for a twist. Remember, Healthy Food Recipes are all about making your health journey uniquely yours.
There you have it, a heartwarming meal perfect for fall — nutritious, simple, and utterly delicious. Making meals like Ham and Spinach Alfredo from our healthy food recipes catalog can transform your weeknight dinners into delightful adventures in flavor and wellness.
Let me know in the comments below how yours turns out, and what creative tweaks you made! Until next time, stay warm and keep cooking with love!
Happy eating,
[Your Name] 🍝