Creamy Spinach Lemon Pasta
A quick, bright, and creamy pasta dish with fresh spinach, zesty lemon, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal, packed with fiber and healthy fats, ready in just 20 minutes.
Equipment
- 12-inch large skillet
- Large pot with straining cover
- Handheld citrus juicer
- Stainless steel tongs with silicone
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic grated or finely minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 2 cups baby spinach
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt plus more for pasta water
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta Perfectly: Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt to season the pasta as it cooks. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti, gently stirring to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 9–10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente—tender yet slightly firm to the bite. Before draining, carefully reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water; it will be essential for creating a silky sauce. Do not rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce cling beautifully.
- Melt the Butter and Infuse Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, place a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option) and allow it to melt completely, coating the bottom of the pan. Once melted, add the grated or finely minced garlic along with ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir constantly and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the aroma becomes fragrant and slightly nutty. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.
- Incorporate Lemon and Pasta Water: Lower the heat slightly and carefully pour in the juice of one fresh lemon, followed by ½ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir gently and allow the mixture to bubble and combine, creating a thin, flavorful sauce that will coat the pasta evenly. This step balances acidity and richness, forming the base of your creamy, tangy sauce.
- Wilt the Spinach and Combine Pasta: Add the 2 cups of baby spinach directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently using tongs until the spinach begins to soften and wilt, turning vibrant green. Immediately add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Using tongs, toss the pasta and spinach together carefully, ensuring each strand of spaghetti is coated with the lemon-garlic sauce. If the sauce appears too dry, gradually add another ¼ cup of reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, smooth consistency.
- Finish with Seasoning and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Immediately add the lemon zest, ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss gently a few times until the cheese melts slightly and blends with the sauce, coating the pasta evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a touch more salt or pepper to enhance flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates, ensuring each portion has a generous amount of spinach and sauce. For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or a light drizzle of olive oil on top. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the bright lemon aroma and creamy sauce to shine. This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps create a silky, well-coated sauce.
- Toss the spinach quickly with the warm sauce to preserve its bright color and fresh flavor.
- For a richer, creamier sauce, add a splash of half-and-half, cream, or cream cheese at the end.
- Taste as you go, adjusting salt, pepper, or lemon juice to achieve the perfect balance.
- Use freshly grated garlic and lemon zest for maximum flavor impact.
- Avoid overcooking the spinach to keep it tender and vibrant.
- Gradually add pasta water if the sauce seems too thick or dry.
- This dish is best served immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
