Pasta with Spinach is one of those rare recipes that feels both incredibly comforting and full of fresh, vibrant flavor. There’s just something about silky noodles twined with garlicky sautéed greens, kissed with a touch of heat and finished with nutty Parmesan, that makes every bite absolutely blissful. If you’re seeking a dish that’s both healthy and deeply satisfying, this simple pasta fits the bill — and it comes together faster than you might believe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are few but each is vital to creating the signature taste and texture of Pasta with Spinach. From the earthiness of fresh greens to the luxurious drizzle of olive oil, every piece plays a starring role.
- Pasta: Use penne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape; try to pick one that holds onto the glossy spinach sauce.
- Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil adds rich flavor and the perfect base for blooming garlic.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is best, infusing the whole dish with warmth and fragrance.
- Fresh Spinach: Use plenty (it cooks down a ton!) for a lovely tangle of greens in every forkful.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Just a pinch gives a subtle kick that balances the richness beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated for easy melting, it creates a creamy coating and adds umami depth.
- Pasta Water (reserved): The starchy water is a little secret weapon for a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste; the essentials for making all the flavors pop.
- Lemon Zest or Juice (optional): A touch of citrus brings brightness and rounds out the dish.
How to Make Pasta with Spinach
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your pasta of choice according to the package directions. Before you drain it, dip out about 1/4 cup of the pasta water — this starchy liquid will work magic in your sauce later. Drain your pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Chili
While the pasta is cooking, set a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of warmth, the red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic brown.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Tumble all that lovely fresh spinach into the skillet with the garlic oil. It will seem like a mountain, but don’t worry, it cooks down quickly! Use tongs to toss it gently, and in two or three minutes you’ll have perfectly wilted, emerald-green spinach.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Spinach
Add your cooked pasta right into the skillet with the spinach. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to help marry everything together. Toss and stir until the noodles are coated in that garlicky, spinach-infused oil.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep tossing — it will melt into the pasta and create a silky, lightly creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt, lots of black pepper, and a squeeze or zest of lemon if you want extra brightness. Serve immediately, showered with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent.
How to Serve Pasta with Spinach
Garnishes
Finish your Pasta with Spinach with another flurry of grated Parmesan, a grind of black pepper, and maybe some delicate ribbons of lemon zest. For a pop of color and crunch, toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs are absolutely lovely.
Side Dishes
This dish plays beautifully with a simple arugula salad in a lemony vinaigrette, or a platter of roasted vegetables for extra warmth. Fresh crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of garlicky sauce from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, twirl the pasta into little nests with tongs before plating. Pasta with Spinach also looks beautiful layered in a wide, shallow bowl so those glossy greens take center stage. If you’re serving a crowd, consider adding roasted cherry tomatoes or ribbons of prosciutto for variety and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extras, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Your Pasta with Spinach will keep fresh in the fridge for up to three days, making it ideal for meal-prepping or next-day lunches.
Freezing
While Pasta with Spinach is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and keep in mind the texture of the spinach may soften more upon reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Reheating
To reheat, simply toss the pasta with a splash of water or extra olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until warmed through. This helps bring the noodles back to life and blends the sauce all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out any excess liquid before adding it to the skillet. The flavor and nutrition will be there, though the texture may be a little softer than fresh.
Which pasta shape works best for Pasta with Spinach?
You’re free to choose your favorite: penne catches bits of garlic and cheese in every tube, while spaghetti or linguine give you that satisfying twirl. Whole wheat or gluten-free varieties also work seamlessly in this recipe.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The mild flavor of spinach and the creamy Parmesan make this pasta approachable for all ages. If sensitive to spice, simply skip the red pepper flakes.
How can I add protein to this dish?
Stir in some sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or even white beans to make Pasta with Spinach a hearty, complete meal. Crumbled feta or a handful of toasted walnuts are other tasty options.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely, just swap the Parmesan for your favorite vegan cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. Use a good quality olive oil for flavor and don’t hold back on the garlic and lemon for zing!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for an effortless but truly special meal, Pasta with Spinach might become your new go-to. It’s comforting, beautiful, and packed with fresh flavor — just waiting to be shared with the people you love. Give it a try and see how simple ingredients can create a dinner everyone will crave.
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Pasta with Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful vegetarian pasta dish featuring tender spinach, savory garlic, and nutty Parmesan cheese, all tossed with your favorite pasta shape. This pasta with spinach is a satisfying and easy weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta with Spinach:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5–6 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon zest or juice (optional for brightness)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté garlic and spinach: In a skillet, cook garlic and red pepper flakes, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Combine ingredients: Toss cooked pasta with spinach mixture, Parmesan cheese, and a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Season and serve: Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest or juice. Serve warm with extra cheese.
Notes
- You can customize this dish with additions like sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
