Delicious Spinach, Lima Bean & Crispy Pancetta Pasta for a Quick Meal

If you’re looking for a vibrant and nutritious pasta dish, this Spinach, Lima Bean & Crispy Pancetta Pasta is the perfect option. It’s packed with fresh spinach, crispy pancetta, and flavorful lima beans, creating a delicious combination that’s both satisfying and healthy. The dish is quick to prepare, taking just about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Let’s break down the recipe and how to make this wonderful pasta.

Ingredients for Spinach, Lima Bean & Crispy Pancetta Pasta

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this tasty dish:

• Fresh spinach pasta (9 ounces)
• Extra-virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon)
• Diced pancetta (4 ounces)
• Frozen baby lima beans (16 ounces, thawed)
• Shallots (1 cup, sliced)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Dried rosemary (½ teaspoon)
• Baby spinach (4 cups)
• Lemon juice (3 tablespoons)
• Grated pecorino cheese (¾ cup, divided)

How to Make Spinach, Lima Bean & Crispy Pancetta Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a boil over high heat. Add your fresh spinach pasta and cook it according to the instructions on the package. Since spinach pasta cooks quickly, make sure to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. Once it’s done, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it turns crispy. This should take around 6 to 8 minutes. Once crispy, remove the pancetta from the pan with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Lima Beans and Shallots

In the same skillet, add the thawed lima beans and sliced shallots. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3 minutes until the shallots become tender. Next, add the minced garlic and dried rosemary to the pan. Stir for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

Add the fresh baby spinach to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down. This is when the dish starts to come together, and the kitchen will begin to smell amazing!

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Other Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked spinach pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Stir well, and cook for an additional minute to help thicken the sauce. This also helps the pasta absorb all the flavors from the ingredients.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon and Cheese

Finally, stir in the lemon juice, crispy pancetta, and half of the grated pecorino cheese. Mix everything until it’s well combined. Serve the pasta with the remaining pecorino cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Making the Perfect Spinach, Lima Bean & Crispy Pancetta Pasta

• Pasta options: While the recipe uses spinach pasta, you can switch it up with any kind of fresh pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or tagliatelle.
• Adjust the seasoning: If you love a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the pancetta to give the dish a bit of heat.
• Extra protein: For those who want a bit more protein, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta for a heartier meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish is more than just tasty – it’s also packed with nutrition. The spinach and lima beans provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish a great choice for supporting a healthy immune system and aging well. The crispy pancetta adds a savory depth of flavor, while the fresh lemon juice brightens everything up, creating a balanced meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

You can serve this pasta dish with a side of crispy roasted vegetables, like brussels sprouts or broccoli, for extra nutrients. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will also complement the meal nicely. If you’re looking for a complete meal, pair it with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for a delightful dining experience.

Conclusion: A Quick, Nutritious, and Flavorful Pasta

Spinach, Lima Bean & Crispy Pancetta Pasta is a perfect recipe for anyone looking for a fast, delicious, and healthy meal. It’s packed with vibrant flavors from the fresh spinach, creamy lima beans, and crispy pancetta, making it an enjoyable dish for all ages. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a flavorful dinner that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this pasta is a great choice for nourishing your body and satisfying your taste buds.

Purple Basil LLC

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