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Creamy Spinach Pasta

This creamy spinach pasta showcases how fresh greens transform during cooking, turning from bitter to silky and sweet. The dish combines wilted spinach, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese tossed with al dente pasta, resulting in a velvety, vibrant green sauce that clings to every strand. The final texture is smooth, glossy, and satisfying with tender greens and perfectly cooked pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 460
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces spaghetti or linguine preferably al dente
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or smashed
  • 4 cups fresh spinach washed and roughly chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for lighter version
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for brightness
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • pasta pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, saving a cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, until shimmering and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic but not browned.
  3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet in batches, stirring constantly. Cook until wilted and vibrant green, about 2-3 minutes, until the greens release their aroma and become silky.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, bringing it to a simmer. Let it thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes, until it becomes creamy and coats the spinach evenly.
  5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it to a silky consistency.
  6. Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing gently to coat each strand with the creamy spinach sauce. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Finish by stirring in lemon zest if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a final toss to distribute the seasoning evenly.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy the velvety, vibrant green pasta while warm and fresh.