Savor the Flavor of Whole Grain Pasta with Arugula & Garlic
In search of a simple yet satisfying pasta dish that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients? Look no further than this Whole Grain Pasta with Arugula & Garlic recipe! Packed with vibrant flavors and nutritious components, this dish is a delightful combination of hearty whole grains, peppery arugula, and aromatic garlic.
The Goodness of Whole Grains and Greens
Whole grain pasta serves as the perfect canvas for this dish, offering a hearty texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the peppery bite of arugula. Whole grains are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for supporting overall health and well-being.
Arugula, with its distinctive flavor and vibrant green leaves, adds a refreshing contrast to the dish. This leafy green is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. It’s also low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber, making it a nutrient-dense addition to any meal.
Recipe: Whole Grain Pasta with Arugula & Garlic
Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole grain pasta (gluten-free or pasta of choice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 oz arugula
- 1/2 cup white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt, to taste
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for finishing)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Prepare the Garlic and Arugula:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the arugula to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Arugula Mixture:
- Add the cooked pasta and white beans to the skillet with the arugula and garlic. Toss to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add Lemon Zest and Juice:
- Zest the lemon directly over the pasta mixture, then cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the pasta. Stir to incorporate the lemon zest and juice evenly.
- Finish and Serve:
- If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the pasta for a hint of heat.
- Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls. Drizzle each serving with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest or arugula leaves if desired.
Final Thoughts
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and nourishing ingredients, this Whole Grain Pasta with Arugula & Garlic is a celebration of simple yet sophisticated cooking. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or shared with loved ones on a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your appetite for wholesome goodness. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a plateful of pasta perfection!