Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta

The choice of pasta plays a significant role in how the dish presents itself, both visually and texturally. Fettuccine, with its broad, flat shape, is a popular choice for creamy sauces as it holds onto the sauce beautifully, providing a satisfying bite. On the other hand, spaghetti offers a classic appeal, allowing each strand to be coated in the luscious sauce. Both options have their merits, and the preference ultimately comes down to personal taste. For a heartier meal, fettuccine may be the way to go, while spaghetti offers a lighter, more traditional approach.

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta, a perfect recipe for busy nights and special occasions alike. This dish combines the rich flavors of sautéed garlic and fresh spinach with creamy sauce, creating a delightful experience. Choose your favorite pasta, whether fettuccine or spaghetti, and watch it come alive with vibrant ingredients. Easy to customize for dietary preferences, this comforting meal is sure to impress while being simple to prepare. Enjoy making memories around the table with this flavorful dish!

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Ingredients

8 oz (225g) fettuccine or spaghetti

2 tbsp olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)

½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

¼ tsp black pepper

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Zest of 1 lemon

Fresh lemon juice (from ½ lemon)

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

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

Sauté Garlic: In the same pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

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

Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic and spinach. Allow to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

Combine with Pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Toss and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for an additional minute to ensure everything is heated through.

Garnish: Serve the creamy garlic spinach pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings