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Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

A simple, wholesome pasta dish made with garlic, olive oil, fresh spinach, and lemon. Light, flavorful, and ready in 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy solo dinners.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just golden (not browned).
  3. Wilt the spinach: Add spinach to the skillet and toss for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
  4. Toss with pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until evenly coated and glossy.
  5. Finish and serve: Squeeze in lemon juice, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  • Use plenty of spinach—it reduces significantly when cooked.
  • Be careful not to brown the garlic—it can turn bitter.
  • Reserved pasta water helps create a light sauce—don’t skip it!
  • Top with toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts for added texture.
  • Add mushrooms, tomatoes, or chickpeas for variation.
  • Author: Your Name Here
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: garlic spinach pasta, spaghetti with greens, vegetarian pasta, 15-minute dinner