This Pasta with Spinach recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch. Made with just a handful of ingredients, it combines tender pasta, fresh spinach, garlic, and a touch of Parmesan for a deliciously light and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh spinach and a touch of olive oil.
- Customizable: Add protein or your favorite vegetables to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type)
- Fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes, lemon zest, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor.
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss to combine and coat the pasta with the spinach and garlic mixture.
- Season and Serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a creamy sauce.
- Lemon Spinach Pasta: Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it to the skillet.
2. What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like penne and fusilli work wonderfully in this recipe.
3. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
4. How can I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Reserve some pasta water to toss with the pasta after draining. The starch helps keep it from clumping.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers make great additions.
6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of the spinach.
7. Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
8. How do I add more flavor?
Try adding a splash of white wine, balsamic vinegar, or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
9. Can I use baby spinach?
Yes, baby spinach is tender and works perfectly in this recipe.
10. What can I serve with this pasta?
Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Pasta with Spinach is a quick, easy, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its simple ingredients and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whip it up today and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal in no time!
PrintPasta with Spinach: Easy & Quick
This simple and delicious pasta with spinach is perfect for a quick, healthy meal. Tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce, it’s ready in under 20 minutes and customizable with your favorite add-ins.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh spinach (about 6 oz)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water (optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down, about 2–3 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Combine the Pasta and Spinach:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- For extra flavor, toss in sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, or toasted pine nuts.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.