Description
This Lemon Spinach Pasta is a bright, creamy, and comforting dish that combines the tang of fresh lemon, tender spinach, and savory Parmesan cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect vegetarian pasta for weeknights or elegant dinners alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces long pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 1 pound baby spinach
- Juice and zest from 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the baby spinach and lemon zest. Toss until the spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the lemon juice. Toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and gradually add reserved pasta water to create a light, creamy sauce. Mix well until fully combined.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a twist of black pepper.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the brightest flavor — both juice and zest are essential.
- Don’t skip the pasta water; its starch helps create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta.
- To make it gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- For added protein, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Lemon Spinach Pasta, lemon pasta, creamy spinach pasta, vegetarian pasta, lemon parmesan pasta, Italian comfort food, quick pasta recipe