Description
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish brings together the classic combination of aromatic garlic and fresh spinach in a light, satisfying meal. The key to this recipe is timing – perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti tossed with golden garlic-infused olive oil and tender wilted spinach creates a restaurant-quality dish in just 25 minutes. A splash of pasta water helps bind everything together, while Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon add the perfect finishing touches.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted. If using, add the red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the garlic and spinach. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Notes
- Don’t let the garlic brown too much as it can become bitter
- Baby spinach works best for quick wilting
- Save some pasta water before draining – the starchy water helps create a silky sauce
- Serve immediately while hot for best texture
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pasta, garlic, spinach, vegetarian, quick meal, weeknight dinner, Italian, simple