Boursin Cheese Pasta
Indulge in a bowl of Boursin cheese pasta, where creamy garlic herb cheese meets perfectly cooked pasta for a delightful meal. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 5 oz Boursin cheese (garlic & herbs)
- 2 cups spinach, fresh
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people, with a preparation time of 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, 25g fat, 60g carbohydrates, and 14g protein. This is based on a serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil salted water in a large pot.
- Add fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add cherry tomatoes and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach and tomatoes.
- Mix in the Boursin cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt and pepper, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Boursin cheese with any other cream cheese or flavored cheese spread. For a lighter version, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta, and substitute spinach with kale or arugula.
Serving and Pairings
Boursin cheese pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. It can also be complemented with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. This dish is not recommended for freezing as the creaminess may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
- Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry dish.
- Forgetting to season the sauce will result in bland flavors.
- Using cold cheese instead of room temperature may affect melting.
- Rushing the sautéing process can lead to unevenly cooked vegetables.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the skillet with the tomatoes.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Experiment with different herbs for added freshness.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Boursin cheese pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving. However, it’s best to mix in the cheese and vegetables last minute to maintain freshness.
Is Boursin cheese pasta vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or meat products.
Can I add protein to Boursin cheese pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be excellent additions to enhance the protein content.
What wine pairs well with Boursin cheese pasta?
A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy texture and flavor of the dish beautifully.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the skillet while sautéing the vegetables.
Conclusion
Boursin cheese pasta is a delightful dish that brings together creamy cheese and fresh ingredients for a quick and satisfying meal. Its versatility allows for various adaptations, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe that promises to please everyone at the table!
Boursin Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 5 oz Boursin cheese garlic & herbs
- 2 cups spinach fresh
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot.
- Add fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add cherry tomatoes and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach and tomatoes.
- Mix in the Boursin cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Season with salt and pepper, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.