Tired of the same old spaghetti night? Craving something vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy? Then get ready to spice up your week with this Green Spaghetti Mexican Recipe! This delicious dish combines the comforting familiarity of spaghetti with the zesty punch of Mexican cuisine, creating a quick dinner idea the whole family will adore. It's a healthy meal packed with fresh ingredients and bold tastes – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for 4 hungry adults. Adjust accordingly for your needs!
- 1 pound spaghetti (preferably whole wheat for added fiber)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite kind!)
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese for a readily available substitute)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, diced (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the thawed and squeezed spinach, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Stir to combine. Pour in the salsa and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly with the delicious sauce. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado (if using). Squeeze a lime wedge over each serving for an extra burst of fresh citrus.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a great dish. It should be firm to the bite.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach: This will prevent your sauce from becoming watery.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, use a mild salsa. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili powder or some chopped jalapeños.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or a dollop of guacamole.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply omit the cotija cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, ground beef, or shrimp for extra protein.
- Different greens: Substitute the spinach with kale or other leafy greens.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 15-20g Fiber: 10-12g
This Green Spaghetti Mexican Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for those seeking quick, easy, and healthy meal options. Enjoy the vibrant colors and satisfying tastes of this delicious and homemade cooking experience! It's a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.