Print

Blue Cheese Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 4 reviews

This quick and delicious Blue Cheese Pasta with Spinach and Walnuts features a creamy, tangy blue cheese sauce lightened with creme fraiche and complemented by the crunch of toasted walnuts. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an ideal meal for busy days when you want something indulgent yet simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 250 g (8.8 oz) pasta

Sauce

  • 20 g (1 tbsp) butter
  • 1 medium shallot
  • 200 ml (1 cup) creme fraiche
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach
  • 80 g (3 oz) blue cheese
  • 30 g (1 ounce) parmesan, grated

Garnish

  • 30 g (1 ounce) walnuts, toasted, plus more for serving
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it generously, and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. Sauté the shallot: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened.
  3. Prepare the sauce: Stir in the creme fraiche and cook for 2 minutes until it begins to bubble, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Add pasta water and spinach: Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water, then add the baby spinach. Cook for about 1 minute until the spinach wilts slightly.
  5. Incorporate blue cheese: Add the blue cheese to the pan and stir well to combine until the sauce starts bubbling again.
  6. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat it evenly. Then stir in the grated parmesan and toasted walnuts.
  7. Season and serve: Season the pasta with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional toasted walnuts if desired.

Notes

  • Use a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or fusilli.
  • Toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned.
  • Crumbled blue cheese can be adjusted to preference depending on how strong you like the flavor.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
  • This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and crunch of walnuts.

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/blue-cheese-pasta-with-spinach-and-walnuts-recipe/