Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is easy to make with minimal ingredients but packs a punch of fresh flavor thanks to the lemon juice and zest. The spinach adds a nutritious boost and beautiful color, while the sauce is creamy without being heavy. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main or side and customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Sauté Garlic and Spinach:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with spinach.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese.
- Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Season and Serve:
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
- Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

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

Variations

Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or cream cheese.
Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or feta cheese instead of Parmesan.
Add Veggies: Mix in cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or peas.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if dry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain well before adding to the skillet.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Reserve pasta water to add moisture when tossing the pasta.

Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used if needed.

Is this recipe vegan?

Omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta varieties.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, store components separately and combine before serving.

Can I add garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic is preferred for flavor, but garlic powder can be a substitute.

What pasta shapes work best?

Long noodles like spaghetti or linguine work well, but penne or rotini are fine too.

How can I make the dish spicier?

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

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as spinach can become watery when thawed.

Conclusion

Spinach Lemon Pasta is a bright, easy, and delicious dish that brings fresh, healthy ingredients to your table with minimal effort. The zing of lemon combined with tender spinach and pasta makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect any day of the week. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a simple, tasty feast!