Description
A quick and comforting Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta made with tender pasta tossed in sautéed garlic, fresh spinach, olive oil, and Parmesan, finished with a splash of pasta water for a light, silky sauce.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 cups fresh spinach
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in red pepper flakes (if using), then add fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the garlic and spinach.
- Pour in the reserved pasta water and toss gently until a light, silky sauce forms.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired and serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a heartier texture.
Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein.
For a creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of ricotta or a splash of heavy cream.
For a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
