Go Back
- Spaghetti or linguine - Olive oil - Fresh spinach

Lemon Spinach Pasta

Discover the joy of cooking with Lemon Spinach Pasta, a simple and flavorful recipe that brightens any meal! This dish combines al dente pasta with fresh spinach, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic for a deliciously satisfying experience. Perfect for any occasion, it can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) spaghetti or linguine

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

      Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until wilted.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the spinach, then pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and reserved pasta water (start with 1/2 cup and add more if necessary for desired consistency).

          Season: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

            Finish with Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright, herby finish.

                Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, drizzling a little extra olive oil on top and adding a few extra lemon zest strands for a pop of color.