Description
This vibrant Lemon Garlic Spinach Pasta combines tender spaghetti with fresh spinach, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic for a quick and flavorful vegetarian meal. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, savory touch, making it a perfect easy dinner for those craving light yet satisfying Italian-inspired fare.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the roughly chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted and tender.
- Add Lemon and Seasonings: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Incorporate Cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until the cheese melts and forms a light, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Whole wheat pasta can be used for extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a few tablespoons of ricotta cheese before serving.
