Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic

Name: Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 250g pasta of your choice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 300g fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Plate Favorites

I love how simple and satisfying this Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic recipe is. Whenever I crave a quick yet flavorful meal, I turn to this dish. The combination of fresh spinach and aromatic garlic creates a delightful harmony that elevates everyday pasta to something special. I appreciate how it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a tasty meal that's both nutritious and impressive.

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:29:36.646Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I sautéed the garlic in olive oil until it was fragrant, which added an incredible depth of flavor to the pasta. By adding the spinach just before the pasta was finished cooking, I ensured it wilted perfectly while still retaining some of its vibrant color and nutrients.

This simple technique not only enhances the taste but also gives the dish a beautiful presentation. I've served this to friends and family, and they always ask for seconds. It's a testament to how quality ingredients can come together to create something outstanding.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare in just 25 minutes
Fresh spinach adds essential nutrients
Garlic infuses a delightful aroma
Versatile – perfect as a main dish or side

Ingredient Importance

The quality of your ingredients can greatly impact the overall flavor and nutritional value of this dish. Fresh spinach is key, not only for its vibrant color but also for its earthy flavor and nutrients, such as iron and vitamins A and C. When choosing spinach, look for crisp, bright leaves without any wilting or yellowing, as these are signs of freshness. For an alternative, baby kale can be used, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender.

The garlic in this recipe isn’t just for flavor; it adds an aromatic depth that complements the spinach beautifully. Minced garlic should be sautéed only until fragrant, as overcooking can lead to a bitter taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can roast the garlic instead, which brings out its natural sweetness. Always remember to slice or mince the garlic uniformly to ensure even cooking.

Technique Tips

While cooking the pasta, be sure to taste it a minute or two before the package's suggested cooking time. Al dente pasta will have a slight bite to it, which is ideal for this dish as it allows the pasta to hold up against the sautéed spinach and garlic. Reserving pasta water before draining ensures you have an emergency liquid to adjust the sauce's consistency without losing flavor.

When sautéing the garlic, keep a close eye on it, stirring constantly. Garlic can go from perfectly golden to burned in seconds. If you notice the garlic beginning to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. This adjustment helps to prevent bitterness and leads to a more pleasant, aromatic dish. The right balance of heat is crucial for extracting the best flavor without compromising the overall dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a lovely presentation, consider finishing your pasta with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a rustic touch to your dish. You can also pair your Easy Pasta with Spinach and Garlic with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, quickly warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to revive the flavors. This dish can also be made vegetarian by simply omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting a plant-based alternative, ensuring it remains suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

250g pasta of your choice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
300g fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready for quick cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your pasta:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Add Spinach

Stir the fresh spinach into the skillet, cooking until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein. You can also substitute kale for spinach for a different flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pasta with spinach and garlic can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water or a bit of olive oil to help loosen the dish and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and maintain the vibrant color of the spinach.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions of the cooked pasta for up to three months. However, it's best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately if possible. When reheating frozen pasta, a quick stir into a simmering pot of sauce can revive the flavors while warming it through.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the type of pasta you choose; whole wheat or gluten-free options can provide different textures and flavors. You can also add protein by tossing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. Additionally, consider adding cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or sun-dried tomatoes for a more concentrated flavor.

For a creamier version of this dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a couple tablespoons of cream cheese after adding the pasta. This will transform the sauce into a rich coating for the pasta, making it even more comforting. Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end can also brighten the dish with fresh notes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your pasta seems sticky after cooking, it may be due to overcooking or not using enough water during boiling. Make sure to use a large pot and plenty of salt for cooking. If your garlic turns bitter, it’s likely that it has been cooked too long. For future batches, lower the heat as soon as you smell that wonderful aroma, and be ready to add your spinach right away.

When it comes to seasoning, always start with a pinch of salt and pepper and adjust according to your taste. The amount may vary depending on your cheese, as Parmesan can be quite salty. Taste the dish as you go, especially before serving, to ensure the flavors are balanced and to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Any type of pasta works well, but I prefer spaghetti or penne for this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

→ Can I prep this in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook it just before serving.