Rainbow of Oz Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant pasta dish with colorful vegetables and a creamy spinach sauce, inspired by the Land of Oz's magical hues. This american-inspired one pot (vegetarian) ready in about 40 minutes blends spaghetti, fresh spinach, grated carrots into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 450 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 American cuisine 450 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 cup grated carrots and 1 cup diced bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 cups fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Add 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Step 5: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix thoroughly to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Rainbow of Oz Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (15 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Rainbow of Oz Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Rainbow of Oz Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Rainbow of Oz Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Rainbow of Oz Pasta with Creamy Spinach Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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