Description
A quick and healthy weeknight pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti tossed with fragrant garlic, fresh spinach, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Finished with Parmesan cheese and a splash of lemon juice.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons pasta water (reserved)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the spinach in batches, tossing until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet along with a splash of pasta water. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, or substitute kale for spinach if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Main
- Cuisine: Italian