If you’re searching for a dish that brings together hearty Italian comfort, pops of color, and fresh leafy greens, Pasta with Spinach is the answer! This recipe is vibrant, simple, and comes together in around 20 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy Sunday. The marriage of garlicky, silky spinach and perfectly cooked pasta tossed with Parmesan creates a bowl of pure happiness. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking to add more veggies to your table, this Pasta with Spinach is certain to become your new favorite go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients unlock all the magic in this recipe! Each item plays an important role in taste and texture — you’ll notice every component shining through in every forkful. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Pasta (8 oz, such as penne or spaghetti): Choose your favorite shape — penne and spaghetti both work beautifully and hold the saucy bits perfectly.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For that luscious, slightly fruity base to sauté the garlic and spinach.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the whole dish with irresistible aroma and flavor.
- Fresh spinach (5 oz, roughly chopped): Spinach adds a vibrant green color and wilts down to a silky, nutrient-rich layer.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): If you crave a gentle hint of heat, don’t skip this — just a sprinkle makes a difference.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Salty, nutty Parmesan melts into the pasta creating a creamy, decadent finish.
- Pasta water (1/4 cup, reserved): This starchy liquid pulls everything together and helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Season to brighten and bring all the flavors together!
How to Make Pasta with Spinach
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until just al dente, following the package directions. Don’t forget to scoop out 1/4 cup of that precious pasta water just before draining — it’ll work wonders in the sauce later!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet or sauté pan, drizzle in the olive oil and set over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the minced garlic (and those optional red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold). Stir for about a minute, just until the garlic smells amazing — not browned!
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Add your chopped spinach to the skillet and watch it transform. Stir gently for 2 to 3 minutes, and you’ll see that big pile shrink down to a soft, tender mound, vividly green and ready to soak up all the garlicky flavor.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Spinach
Now for the fun part! Add the drained pasta straight into the skillet with the wilted spinach. Pour in your reserved pasta water as well — this glossy liquid helps tie everything together. Toss and stir so every strand or bite is coated in the gorgeous green base.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Seasoning
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the pasta and give everything a good toss, letting the cheese melt and create that signature creamy texture. Taste, then finish with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Serve hot, with a little extra Parmesan showered over each bowl if you wish!
How to Serve Pasta with Spinach
Garnishes
The finishing touches can be as simple or as festive as you like. For Pasta with Spinach, a handful of extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper is always welcome. If you want even more color, add a scattering of chopped fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, or a drizzle of high quality olive oil right before serving!
Side Dishes
Pasta with Spinach is lovely all by itself, but it’s also fabulous alongside a crisp green salad or a platter of roasted veggies. For extra heartiness, pair it with juicy grilled chicken or buttery garlic bread — perfect for mopping up any extra sauce left in the bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your table into a trattoria! Serve Pasta with Spinach family-style in a rustic, wide bowl, or twirl individual nests on dinner plates for an elegant touch. For extra flair, set out bowls of toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or chili flakes so everyone can customize their own perfect plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Pasta with Spinach, transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, and it actually tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
Pasta with Spinach can be frozen, though the spinach may lose a bit of its vibrant texture after thawing. Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container (adding a splash of olive oil to prevent clumping), and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring Pasta with Spinach back to life, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir until it’s warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid the microwave if you can; stovetop keeps the texture just right!
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Simply thaw the spinach and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the pan. It will work beautifully — just adjust the amount to match what you’d get from 5 oz of fresh spinach.
How do I make this vegan?
Swap the Parmesan for your favorite vegan cheese, or use nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy vibe. And double-check your pasta is egg-free. With those easy changes, Pasta with Spinach turns totally plant-based!
What type Main Course
Penne or spaghetti are classics, but this dish is just as good with fettuccine, rigatoni, or even rotini. Whole wheat or gluten-free options hold up splendidly in this recipe too.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or some canned chickpeas. Cooked mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes also make delicious, hearty additions to your Pasta with Spinach.
What’s the secret to extra creamy sauce?
Be generous with the pasta water and Parmesan, and always toss everything together while it’s still hot so the cheese melts smoothly. A knob of butter stirred in at the end doesn’t hurt, either!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a meal that’s equal parts quick, wholesome, and cozy, give Pasta with Spinach a try! Every forkful delivers comfort, vibrant color, and rich flavor — and it couldn’t be easier to make. Invite someone you love, set the table, and let this simple recipe brighten up your weeknight dinner!
Print
Pasta with Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Pasta with Spinach, featuring tender pasta coated in a flavorful garlic-infused olive oil sauce, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. This vegetarian dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or spaghetti)
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 oz fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add Spinach: Stir in chopped spinach, cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine: Add drained pasta to the skillet with reserved pasta water. Toss to coat the pasta.
- Finish: Mix in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can add grilled chicken, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and protein.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used as alternatives.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *