Spinach noodles are a type of pasta made with the addition of spinach puree or spinach powder to the pasta dough. The green hue from the spinach not only gives the noodles a vibrant and appetizing color but also infuses them with a subtle earthy and slightly sweet flavor. Here’s a description of spinach noodles:
Preparation:
To make spinach noodles, fresh spinach leaves are blanched in boiling water for a brief period to soften them. The blanched spinach is then immediately transferred to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and preserve the vibrant green color. After draining excess water, the blanched spinach is pureed until smooth.
Alternatively, spinach powder or freeze-dried spinach can also be used to achieve the same green color and spinach flavor. Spinach powder is made by grinding dried spinach leaves into a fine powder.
Noodle Dough:
In a mixing bowl, all-purpose flour or semolina flour is combined with eggs and a pinch of salt. The spinach puree or spinach powder is then added to the flour and eggs, and the mixture is kneaded until a smooth and elastic dough is formed.
The dough is allowed to rest for a short period to relax the gluten and make it easier to roll out the noodles.
Rolling and Cutting:
The spinach noodle dough is rolled out using a pasta machine or a rolling pin to achieve the desired thickness. It can be rolled into thin sheets and cut into long strands or shaped into various noodle shapes, such as fettuccine, tagliatelle, or pappardelle.
Cooking:
The spinach noodles are cooked in boiling salted water until they become al dente, which means they have a tender and slightly firm texture when bitten.
Serving:
Once cooked, the spinach noodles can be served with a variety of sauces and toppings. They pair well with creamy sauces, such as Alfredo or carbonara, as well as tomato-based sauces or simple olive oil and garlic preparations. Spinach noodles can also be used in soups or added to salads for a nutritious and colorful twist.
Spinach noodles not only add a beautiful and vibrant green element to any dish but also offer an added nutritional boost from the spinach, which is rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a delightful option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their pasta dishes or for anyone who enjoys the earthy flavor and appealing green color of spinach in their meal.
