I first stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti on a lazy Sunday, scrolling through a cooking show marathon. It was the way he effortlessly tossed fresh greens into the pot, making something as simple as spaghetti look vibrant and exciting. I remember thinking, "How can something so green and healthy taste this good?"
Ever since, it’s become my go-to dish when I’m craving something light but hearty, full of fresh flavors and just the right balance of comfort. It’s an inspiring reminder that you can take the familiar, like spaghetti, and give it a healthy twist without losing the soul of the dish. Let’s dive deep into this bright, bold dish.
Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti is all about mixing up the usual pasta routine. This dish takes pasta and elevates it with a blend of fresh, nutrient-packed green ingredients like spinach, peas, and herbs. The result is a beautifully creamy and vibrant sauce, creating a dish that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the stomach.
What I love most about it is the versatility. It’s a meal that feels fresh but also indulgent-like a healthy indulgence. The combination of garlic, fresh greens, and a sprinkle of cheese makes each bite feel like a celebration.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti:
- Spaghetti (or your favorite pasta) – You want a hearty type of pasta that can hold up to the sauce. Spaghetti works best, but penne or fusilli would also be great.
- Olive oil – You’ll need a good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the veggies and making the sauce.
- Garlic – The base of any good dish. It adds that aromatic flavor that brings everything together.
- Spinach – Fresh spinach is key. You’ll use it to create the green base of the sauce.
- Frozen peas – The peas add a sweet flavor and a bit of texture to balance the smooth sauce.
- Broccoli – Blanched lightly, broccoli gives the dish a depth of flavor and extra vitamins.
- Parmesan cheese – A must for finishing the dish with a bit of salty umami.
- Lemon zest and juice – These bring freshness and balance to the dish, brightening up all the greens.
- Herbs (basil, parsley, mint) – Fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor that cuts through the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti
Making this dish is as easy as it is rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
-
Cook The Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente (about 8-10 minutes depending on the type).
-
Prepare The Greens
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Toss in your spinach, peas, and broccoli. Sauté until the spinach wilts and the peas are warmed through.
-
Blend The Sauce
- Once your greens are softened, use a hand blender or food processor to blend everything into a smooth, creamy sauce. Add a little pasta water if it feels too thick.
-
Combine The Pasta And Sauce
- Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Add the pasta to the pan with the green sauce. Toss everything together, adding a bit of pasta water if needed to help coat the spaghetti evenly.
-
Finish With Flavor
- Stir in lemon zest and juice, fresh herbs, and grated parmesan.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Serve And Enjoy
- Plate the spaghetti and top with more cheese and herbs if you like.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
One of the things I’ve come to appreciate about this recipe is how the ingredients come together from a nutritional standpoint. Here’s a breakdown of some of the powerhouse ingredients:
- Spinach: This leafy green is packed with iron, which supports energy and immune function. It also has antioxidants like vitamins A and C that protect the skin and boost overall health.
- Peas: These little gems are full of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full. They also provide a solid dose of plant-based protein.
- Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable, broccoli is rich in vitamins K and C. It has compounds like sulforaphane, which are linked to cancer prevention and inflammation reduction.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Lemon: Lemons are high in vitamin C, helping with immune support and acting as an anti-inflammatory.
This recipe doesn’t just taste good; it nourishes your body in ways you might not expect from a simple pasta dish!
Expert Tips
- Fresh pasta: If you have access to fresh pasta, give it a try! It’ll give the dish an extra layer of softness and richness.
- Sauce consistency: If you want a creamier texture, blend in a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese. It makes the sauce even smoother and adds a touch of luxury.
- Pasta water: Don’t forget to save pasta water! It’s your secret weapon for making sauces stick. The starch in the water helps thicken and bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Adjust the greens: If you’re not a fan of broccoli or spinach, try swapping in kale, arugula, or even zucchini. You can mix and match until you find your favorite combo.
- Make it vegan: Skip the cheese and use a plant-based option instead. A nutritional yeast sprinkle will mimic the cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free.
Recipe Variations
Jamie’s recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with your greens and pasta:
- Add protein: Throw in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu if you want extra protein to fuel your day.
- Change up the herbs: If basil isn’t your thing, try rosemary or thyme for a more earthy flavor. Or even a handful of arugula for a peppery kick.
- Go wild with the greens: Swap spinach for Swiss chard, kale, or even collard greens. Each one will change the flavor profile a bit, making it your own.
- Make it spicy: Add a bit of red pepper flakes for some heat. The spiciness pairs perfectly with the creamy green sauce.
Final Words
Jamie’s Super Green Spaghetti isn’t just a pasta dish-it’s a reminder that healthy food doesn’t have to be bland. It’s fresh, vibrant, and loaded with the kind of greens that will make you feel good from the inside out. Every bite is like a mini celebration of what great, wholesome ingredients can do when they come together.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti?
You’ll need spaghetti, spinach, basil, peas, zucchini, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based version to keep it vegetarian.
How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti?
It takes around 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook the dish.