There’s a certain joy that comes from creating a meal that not only delights the senses but also tells a story. When I first discovered Tallarines Verdes, the creamy Peruvian green spaghetti, it felt like I had unearthed a hidden treasure within my kitchen. The vibrant hue of spinach and basil blended together sweeps you off your feet, while the nutty undertones of pecans give it a depth that makes it irresistible. This dish is not just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s a celebration of tradition and flavor that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply someone seeking to escape the monotony of fast food, this easy-to-make recipe will transform your pasta nights into something truly special. So, let’s dive into the warmth of Peruvian cuisine with this luscious Tallarines Verdes—your taste buds will thank you!
Why will you love Tallarines Verdes?
The Tallarines Verdes will quickly become your go-to pasta dish!
- Vibrant Colors: The stunning green sauce not only excites the eyes but also boosts mood.
- Creamy Indulgence: The blend of spinach, basil, and cheese creates an incredibly rich and satisfying experience.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds—it’s total crowd-pleaser!
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it as a wholesome vegetarian main—its adaptability is endless!
Tallarines Verdes Ingredients
Unlock the vibrant flavors of this Peruvian delight with these fresh ingredients!
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing garlic while adding a rich, fruity flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – Offers a robust flavor base; can be minced or puréed for a smoother texture.
- Basil Leaves (30g) – Contributes a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the green flavor profile.
- Spinach (250g) – The star of the sauce, providing its vibrant green color; remember to remove stalks for a smoother blend.
- Queso Fresco (160g) – Adds creaminess and a slight tang; substitute with ricotta or feta if necessary.
- Pecans (8) – Introduces nuttiness and depth; toasting enhances their flavor profile.
- Crackers (20g) – Provides texture; optional if you prefer a smoother sauce or can substitute with more cheese.
- Milk (180ml) – Enriches the sauce; any milk type works, including lactose-free or plant-based options.
For Serving
- Parmesan Cheese – An optional finishing touch that adds a salty, savory note to your Tallarines Verdes.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, enhancing the overall flavor and seasoning the sauce beautifully.
Embrace these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a delightful plate of Tallarines Verdes that everyone will love!
How to Make Tallarines Verdes
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Prepare Spinach: Remove the stalks from the spinach by folding the leaves and gently pulling the stalks away. Wash the leaves thoroughly under cold water to ensure they’re fresh and clean.
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Cook Garlic: Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then remove and set aside to reserve the flavor.
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Sauté Greens: In the same pan, drizzle in a little more olive oil and increase the heat. Toss in the spinach and basil with a pinch of salt, cooking for 30 seconds until they are wilted but still a vibrant green.
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Blend Sauce: Transfer the sautéed greens along with the reserved garlic, queso fresco, pecans, crackers, and milk into a blender. Blend on high until you achieve a smooth and creamy sauce, perfect for coating your pasta.
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Combine with Pasta: In a pot, heat the blended sauce over medium heat. Add in your cooked pasta, tossing gently to ensure every strand is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out gradually with a splash of reserved pasta water.
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Serve: Dish up the delicious Tallarines Verdes onto plates, garnishing with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or cubes of queso fresco for a delightful finishing touch.
Optional: Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Tallarines Verdes
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep the spinach vibrant by cooking it just until wilted—this preserves its bright color and flavor.
- Perfect Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, loosen it with small amounts of reserved pasta cooking water until it reaches your desired creaminess.
- Nut Alternatives: Don’t hesitate to swap pecans for walnuts or almonds; each option brings its unique flavor to your Tallarines Verdes.
- Balance Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to ensure a harmonious balance; you can always add more!
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months—perfect for quick weeknight dinners!
Make Ahead Options
These Tallarines Verdes are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the creamy green sauce up to 3 days in advance by blending all your ingredients—spinach, basil, walnuts, and cheese—then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its vibrant color and avoid browning, make sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat while cooking your pasta; if it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. With this make-ahead method, you’ll have a delightful family meal ready in minutes, saving you precious time during busy weeknights!
Tallarines Verdes Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to the Tallarines Verdes recipe, making it even more delightful!
- Nut-Free: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a simpler version.
- Dairy-Free: Use a nut-based cheese and plant milk to stay creamy while keeping it free from dairy.
- Whole Grain: Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta varieties for a healthier twist.
- Herb Boost: Experiment by adding cilantro or parsley along with basil for an extra fresh flavor pop.
- Creamier Sauce: Stir in additional cream or a dollop of sour cream for a more indulgent texture.
- Zesty Touch: Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.
- Chili Kick: For some heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce.
- Vegetable Medley: Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or peas with the sautéed spinach for added color and nutrition.
Let your creativity shine as you craft your perfect plate of Tallarines Verdes!
How to Store and Freeze Tallarines Verdes
- Fridge: Store any leftover Tallarines Verdes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: The sauce can be frozen in individual portions for up to 3 months. Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Heat on the stove with a touch of milk to reincorporate the creamy texture or microwave in short intervals.
- Doubling: If you decide to make a larger batch, consider storing half for future meals—it’s a delightful way to have a quick, homemade dish ready to go!
What to Serve with Tallarines Verdes?
There’s nothing quite like pairing your favorite comfort food with delightful sides that elevate the entire meal!
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Grilled Chicken Breast: The subtle smokiness and grill marks on chicken create a beautiful contrast with the creamy sauce, balancing the meal perfectly.
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Beef Milanese: This crispy breaded beef dish adds texture and heartiness, making for a satisfying combination sure to impress your guests. The richness of the beef complements the delicate flavors of the Tallarines Verdes.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and herbs adds vibrant color to your plate, enhancing both flavor and nutrition. The slight char from roasting pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Tallarines Verdes. It’s light, bright, and perfect for adding a burst of flavor.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread offers a delightful crunch, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. It’s a family favorite that never disappoints!
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Chardonnay: This crisp wine with fruity notes complements the nuttiness in the sauce, while its acidity cuts through the creaminess for a well-rounded experience.
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Pan-Seared Asparagus: Add sophistication with lightly charred asparagus, which brings a slight bitterness that balances the creamy pasta beautifully.
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Limoncello Tart: To finish on a sweet note, a zesty tart cuts through savory flavors, providing a delightful contrast that finishes the meal on a refreshing high.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: An effervescent drink like this refreshes the palate and adds a zingy twist, enhancing the dining experience while keeping it light.
Tallarines Verdes Recipe FAQs
What type of spinach should I use for Tallarines Verdes?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works best to achieve that vibrant green color and delicious taste. When selecting spinach, look for leaves that are bright green, crisp, and free of dark spots. I often prefer baby spinach, as it’s tender and blends smoothly into the sauce.
How can I store leftover Tallarines Verdes?
Absolutely! You can store any leftover Tallarines Verdes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or milk to help regain that creamy texture.
Can I freeze Tallarines Verdes?
Very! Freezing is a great option for extending the life of your sauce. To freeze, allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers—this works best in individual portions for convenient meal prep. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What if my sauce becomes too thick?
No worries! If you find that your sauce is too thick after blending, you can easily adjust it. Simply add small amounts of reserved pasta cooking water while mixing it with cooked pasta until you achieve the desired creaminess. Taste as you add, it’s all about getting that perfect texture!
Can Tallarines Verdes be made vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! The recipe as it stands is already vegetarian with its reliance on fresh vegetables and dairy. If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, just ensure that your cheese options are vegetarian—some cheeses may contain animal rennet, so checking the label is a good idea.
Is there a nut-free alternative for Tallarines Verdes?
Definitely! If you’re looking to make this dish nut-free, simply omit the pecans and replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. They provide a similar crunch without the allergens, helping to maintain that delightful texture while keeping your dish accessible to everyone.
These FAQs can help you master the art of making Tallarines Verdes and ensure that you enjoy every last bite!
Creamy Tallarines Verdes: A Taste of Peruvian Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the stalks from the spinach by folding the leaves and gently pulling the stalks away. Wash the leaves thoroughly under cold water.
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
- Drizzle in a little more olive oil, increase the heat, and toss in the spinach and basil with a pinch of salt. Cook for 30 seconds until wilted.
- Transfer the sautéed greens with the reserved garlic, queso fresco, pecans, crackers, and milk into a blender. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- Heat the blended sauce in a pot over medium heat. Add in your cooked pasta and toss gently to coat well.
- Serve onto plates garnished with parmesan cheese or cubes of queso fresco. Optionally, drizzle extra olive oil on top.