Jamie Oliver Super Green Spaghetti Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I’ll never forget the first time I made Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti. It was a Sunday afternoon, and I was craving something healthy, fresh, and full of flavor. I stumbled across this recipe and thought, "Why not?" I had all the ingredients, and I’ve always been a fan of Jamie’s bold flavors and simple techniques. The result? A vibrant plate of pasta that not only satisfied my taste buds but made me feel good, knowing it was packed with wholesome greens.

Now, I find myself coming back to this recipe whenever I need something light but filling. Whether it’s for a quick weekday dinner or a weekend indulgence, Jamie’s Super Green Spaghetti never disappoints. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’ve done something good for your body without sacrificing flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti is a celebration of fresh vegetables, herbs, and delicious pasta. It’s a fun, healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes, blending vibrant green ingredients into a rich and creamy sauce.

Here’s the beauty of this recipe: it’s simple but makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen. You get an explosion of flavors without hours of prep work. From peas to spinach to a punch of fresh basil, the greens come together in a way that’s comforting yet energizing.

Key Highlights

• Packed with nutrient-rich veggies
• Light, refreshing, and creamy
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend meals
• Flexible – swap ingredients to suit your taste

Ingredients Needed

This recipe is all about keeping things fresh and vibrant. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Spaghetti (or any pasta you like) – The base of the dish. I recommend whole wheat for extra fiber.
• Frozen peas – Sweet and easy to use. They’re the perfect addition to this dish.
• Spinach – A rich source of iron, and it blends seamlessly into the sauce.
• Fresh basil – Adds a fresh, aromatic quality to the dish.
• Parmesan cheese – This is your creamy, salty kick. You can also use a vegan alternative if needed.
• Olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the sauce.
• Garlic – For that fragrant, savory base.
• Lemon – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice to bring everything together.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There’s no need to overthink it. Here’s how I usually make it:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook your spaghetti according to the package directions. While it’s cooking, get started on the sauce.

2. Prepare The Green Sauce

   • Heat some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
   • Toss in frozen peas and spinach. Stir until everything is tender.
   • Add a small splash of pasta water to help everything blend smoothly.

3. Blend It

   • Once the veggies are cooked, transfer everything to a blender or food processor.
   • Add fresh basil, lemon juice, and a generous amount of Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Blend until you get a smooth, vibrant green sauce. Adjust with more pasta water if necessary.

4. Combine

   • Once the pasta is done, drain it and toss it into the green sauce.
   • Stir to coat the spaghetti with the creamy, green goodness.

5. Serve

   • Top with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve it warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Every ingredient in Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti serves a purpose, but here are some of the stars:

• Spinach: Rich in iron and packed with vitamins A, C, and K. It’s a powerhouse green that boosts your energy and helps maintain a healthy immune system.
• Peas: These tiny green gems are loaded with protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They help maintain digestive health and balance blood sugar levels.
• Basil: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, basil helps to boost circulation and is often used for its calming effects on the stomach.
• Lemon: Beyond its bright flavor, lemon is full of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system and supports healthy skin.
• Parmesan: A great source of protein and calcium, this cheese adds a creamy texture and a savory punch to the sauce.

Expert Tips

Now that you’ve got the basics down, here are some pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Use a food processor or blender: This will make blending the sauce super easy and help you achieve that silky-smooth texture. If you want a chunkier sauce, just pulse it lightly.
• Adjust the pasta water: Don’t forget to save some of the pasta water! It’s packed with starch and helps make your sauce even creamier.
• Make it vegan: Swap out the Parmesan for a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast if you’re keeping things dairy-free.
• Add protein: You can toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or even some chickpeas for an added protein boost.
• Herb variety: If basil isn’t your thing, feel free to try mint, parsley, or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Recipe Variations

One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch up the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or your personal preferences:

• Add other greens: Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard can be swapped for spinach.
• Add more texture: Try adding roasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for a crunchy topping.
• Spicy kick: Throw in some red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick.
• Creamy twist: Blend in a little coconut milk or cream cheese to make the sauce even richer.
• Different pasta: Experiment with different types of pasta like whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zoodles if you’re looking for something lighter.

Final Words

Jamie’s Super Green Spaghetti is the kind of dish that you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s fast, fresh, and, best of all, loaded with nutrients. It’s a true example of how cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Whether you’re trying to eat more veggies or just looking for a quick meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti?

It’s a fresh, healthy pasta dish packed with green vegetables like spinach, peas, and broccoli.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti?

It usually takes around 20-30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Vegan?

Yes! Just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

What Vegetables Are Used In The Super Green Spaghetti?

Spinach, peas, broccoli, and sometimes zucchini or asparagus.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta For This Recipe?

Absolutely! Any pasta you prefer works, like whole wheat or gluten-free.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti Good For Meal Prep?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for a couple of days and reheats easily.

What Type Of Cheese Is Recommended For The Super Green Spaghetti?

Parmesan or pecorino is typically used for a nice salty finish.

Can I Add Protein To The Super Green Spaghetti?

Definitely! You can add grilled chicken, tofu, or even a fried egg.

What If I Don’t Like Some Of The Vegetables In This Recipe?

Feel free to swap them out for ones you like more, like kale or green beans.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Super Green Spaghetti A Low-calorie Meal?

Yes, it’s a light but filling dish, perfect for a healthy meal option.