Quick Spaghetti Spinach Recipe
A quick and healthy spaghetti dish with fresh spinach, garlic, and creamy sauce, ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Equipment
- Large pot (6 quarts or more)
- Colander
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti (or preferred pasta)
- 3 cups fresh spinach (or 1½ cups thawed frozen spinach)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Wash and blot dry fresh spinach or thaw and drain frozen spinach. Chop if desired.
- Boil spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring until wilted (2-3 minutes).
- Toss cooked pasta with the spinach mixture. Add reserved pasta water gradually for a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.
Notes
Tips & Variations:
- Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for more flavor.
- For a richer sauce, add 2 tbsp of heavy cream or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch.
Storage & Reheating:
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave or reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.