Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

If you’re looking for a simple, wholesome, and deeply satisfying pasta dish that comes together in minutes, this Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re in a cozy Italian kitchen, even if you’re standing barefoot at your stove on a weeknight.

This dish is light, garlicky, fresh, and full of flavor—yet it’s made with just a handful of ingredients. No cream, no fancy sauces—just pantry staples doing what they do best.

And hey, thank you for being here. Truly. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or just hungry for something soul-warming and simple, I’m so glad you stopped by. Want this recipe and others like it sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe below and let’s keep the good food coming.

What Is Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach?

At its core, this dish is all about simplicity: al dente spaghetti tossed in sautéed garlic, good olive oil, and a heap of wilted spinach. It’s finished with a touch of lemon and optional parmesan for brightness and richness.

It’s one of those meals you can whip up on autopilot—and still be amazed by how good it tastes every time.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic & Spinach Spaghetti

• 15-minute meal—seriously!
• Perfectly light but filling
• Uses pantry + fridge staples
• Easy to scale for 1 or a crowd
• Naturally vegetarian and dairy-optional
• Customizable with add-ins like chili flakes, mushrooms, or parmesan

What Does It Taste Like?

It’s garlicky, fresh, and slightly silky from the olive oil and pasta water emulsion. The spinach gives it a subtle earthy note, while lemon brightens everything up. It’s clean and comforting—a perfect example of how simple food can be deeply satisfying.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Budget-friendly
• Quick and easy for busy weeknights
• Packs in a generous amount of greens
• Great for beginners or last-minute meals
• Works as a main or a side dish

Ingredients for Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

• 8 oz spaghetti (or any long pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
• 6 cups fresh spinach (about 5 oz)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Optional: grated parmesan or pecorino, to finish

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or pasta fork
• Knife and cutting board
• Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas
• Go vegan: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative
• More veggies: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini
• Use other greens: Try arugula, kale, or Swiss chard
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite GF spaghetti

How to Make Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

1. Cook the spaghetti:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the garlic:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced garlic. Sauté gently for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant and just golden—don’t let it burn!
3. Add the spinach:
   Add fresh spinach to the skillet and toss until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Toss with pasta:
   Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until coated and glossy.
5. Finish and serve:
   Squeeze in fresh lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with grated parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and an extra crack of black pepper.

Pro tip: The reserved pasta water helps create a silky, light “sauce” that clings to every strand—don’t skip it!

What to Serve with Garlic & Spinach Spaghetti

This dish is lovely on its own, but here are a few great pairings:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
• A side of roasted veggies like zucchini or broccoli
• A glass of white wine—Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

• Don’t overcook the garlic—it should be golden, not brown
• Use plenty of spinach—it wilts down a lot
• Taste as you go—adjust lemon, salt, and pepper at the end
• For more richness, add a knob of butter or splash of cream at the end
• Want crunch? Top with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or oil
• Not freezer-friendly: Fresh greens don’t reheat well from frozen

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Thaw it first and squeeze out excess water. Use about 1/2 cup thawed for this recipe.

Is this dish spicy?

Not unless you add red pepper flakes! Adjust to your heat preference.

Can I make this ahead?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the garlic and spinach ahead of time and store in the fridge for quick assembly.

What pasta works best?

Spaghetti, linguine, angel hair, or even fettuccine—all great! Use what you love or have on hand.

Conclusion

This Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach is one of those meals that proves simplicity really is key. Just a few ingredients, one pan, and 15 minutes stand between you and something that feels special—even on the most ordinary day.

Print