Spinach Artichoke Bow Tie Pasta

Mmmm...spinach artichoke dip.  Who doesn't love it, right?  I could have it probably every week, but my waistline would not like me for it.  :)  It's a classic comfort food, but sometimes it's nice to play around with an old favorite.  I decided to try the same basic flavors in pasta form, and it was delicious!  Why hadn't I thought of this before?!?  It is a heavy pasta, so I would definitely recommend pairing it with a nice side salad and maybe a bruschetta.  You could always substitute a 10 oz bag of frozen spinach if you are a little short on time, but I think using fresh spinach always tastes better.  I hope you give this a try!

Ingredients

1 Tbsp olive oil

20 oz fresh spinach, chopped

16 oz bow tie pasta

2 Tbsp butter

5 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz cream cheese

3/4 C milk

3/4 C sour cream

1/2 lemon, juiced

1/2 tsp salt

1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne

14 oz can artichoke hearts, finely chopped

1/2 C shredded Parmesan cheese

paprika, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.  Add the spinach, in batches if necessary, and cook until wilted.  Set aside to cool.  
2. Drain the excess water from the spinach.
3. Cook the pasta according to package directions.  Drain and set aside.
4. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter over medium heat.  Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.  Add the cream cheese and stir until melted.  Slowly add the milk.  Then add the sour cream, lemon juice, salt and cayenne.  Stir in spinach, artichoke and Parmesan.  
5. Add the pasta to the sauce and gently stir to combine.  
6. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a dash of paprika.

Adapted from A Life of Flavor