Name: Pasta with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of choice; 4 cups fresh spinach; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; ½ tsp salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional); ¼ cup nuts (optional, toasted for crunch); ¼ cup cream or ricotta (optional, for a creamier version)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta with spinach is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet without compromising on taste. This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s versatile, allowing for ingredient substitutions based on personal preference or dietary restrictions. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a light, healthy option, this recipe fits the bill.

Ingredients

pasta of choice
fresh spinach
olive oil
garlic
onion
red pepper flakes
parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
lemon juice
vegetable or chicken broth (optional)
nuts (optional, for added crunch)
cream or ricotta (optional, for a creamier version)

Directions

Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Aromatics – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Spinach – Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted. If needed, add a splash of vegetable or chicken broth to help it cook down.
Combine with Pasta – Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the spinach mixture. If the dish seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Season and Finish – Stir in grated parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Toss everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Optional Additions – For extra creaminess, mix in a spoonful of ricotta or a splash of cream. For added texture, sprinkle with toasted nuts before serving.
Serve – Plate the pasta and garnish with extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Variations

Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for additional protein.
Cheesy Delight – Mix in feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Spicy Kick – Increase the red pepper flakes or add chili oil for extra heat.
Vegan Option – Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutty Crunch – Add toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds for more texture.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness.
Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

FAQs

How can I prevent my pasta from sticking together?

Toss the drained pasta with a little olive oil to prevent clumping.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it to the dish.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Linguine, fettuccine, penne, or any shape that holds the sauce well works best.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan substitutes work well.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Stir in heavy cream, ricotta, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers complement this dish well.

What’s a good protein to add?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans pair nicely.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes! It makes a great pasta salad when served chilled.

Conclusion

Pasta with spinach is a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal that suits a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with additional ingredients, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful experience!

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