Description
A quick and nutritious pasta with spinach recipe featuring garlic, parmesan, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the Spinach – Add spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted. If needed, add a splash of broth to help it cook down.
- Combine with Pasta – Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing well with the spinach. Add reserved pasta water gradually if the dish seems dry.
- Season & Finish – Stir in parmesan, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine flavors.
- Optional Additions – For creaminess, mix in ricotta or cream. For texture, sprinkle toasted nuts on top.
- Serve – Plate and garnish with extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
Notes
- Protein Boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Cheesy Delight – Mix in feta or goat cheese.
- Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil.
- Vegan Option – Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Nutty Crunch – Top with toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: pasta with spinach, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, healthy weeknight dinner