Healthy & Special Diets > Recipes for Specific Life Stages > Pregnancy-Friendly Recipes > Calcium-Rich Recipes for Pregnancy

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta

A delicious and easy pasta dish packed with calcium and nutrients perfect for pregnant women. Ricotta cheese is an excellent source of calcium, while spinach provides iron and other essential vitamins. This recipe is quick to prepare and satisfying.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
2
Ingredients
  • 200 g Whole Wheat Pasta
  • 300 g Fresh Spinach
  • 250 g Ricotta Cheese
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • Pinch Nutmeg
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Black Pepper

Prepare the Spinach

Wash the spinach thoroughly and roughly chop it. Set aside.

Cook the Pasta

Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Wilt the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Stir in the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ricotta is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the spinach and ricotta sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Calories: ~150 kcal
Calcium: ~150mg (approx. 15% of daily recommended intake for pregnant women)
Protein: ~8g
Fiber: ~3g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

This recipe is a good source of calcium, which is essential during pregnancy for the development of the baby's bones and teeth. Ensure you're consuming a variety of calcium-rich foods throughout your pregnancy. Consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

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FAQ

  • Can I use frozen spinach?

    Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pan.
  • Can I add other vegetables?

    Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
  • Is whole wheat pasta necessary?

    While whole wheat pasta provides more fiber and nutrients, you can use regular pasta if you prefer.