Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is everything you need in a quick and flavorful pasta dish. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients from fresh spinach, and bursting with flavor thanks to the garlic and optional red pepper flakes. The addition of Parmesan cheese and lemon wedges brings a wonderful balance of richness and zest to every bite. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your taste with variations. If you're looking for a healthy, satisfying, and quick pasta option, this dish has you covered.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

• 6 cups fresh spinach

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté Garlic:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Wilt the Spinach:
   Add the spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted. If desired, add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

4. Toss Everything Together:
   Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Splash in some reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and help coat the noodles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything well to combine.

5. Serve:
   Plate immediately. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can make this dish heartier by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon.

• Swap the Spinach: While spinach is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other greens like kale or arugula for a different flavor.

• Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese and opt for nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative.

• Extra Veggies: Add roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or mushrooms for a more veggie-packed dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the spaghetti in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to restore moisture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

To avoid burning the garlic, sauté it over medium heat for just 1–2 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye on it, as garlic can burn quickly.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet to avoid excess water.

Can I add more spice to the dish?

If you enjoy spicy food, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish for an extra kick.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

Is this dish vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.

How can I make the pasta creamier?

To add creaminess, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or use a dairy-free cream alternative.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Definitely! Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would be excellent additions. If you like garlic, try adding extra cloves for a more intense flavor.

How can I make this dish heartier?

To make the dish more filling, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a scoop of ricotta or goat cheese.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the pasta is best served immediately, you can cook and store the spinach and garlic mixture separately. Reheat when you’re ready to serve and toss with the cooked spaghetti.

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with garlic and spinach is a fast, flavorful, and healthy dish that's perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying yet light. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients, and its simplicity is what makes it truly shine. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a cozy lunch, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy!