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: 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice); 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Instant Quick Meals Inspiration

I love making Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic when I'm short on time but still want a delicious and nutritious meal. This dish combines fresh spinach, aromatic garlic, and perfectly cooked pasta into a harmonious bowl of comfort. It's a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress my family. The best part is how quickly it comes together—the bright flavors and satisfying textures make it a delicious option any time of the year.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:21:36.476Z

When I first made Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic, I was surprised at how simple it was yet packed with flavor. I sautéed the garlic until it was just golden, releasing its fragrant aroma, and then added fresh spinach. It wilts beautifully, retaining its bright color and freshness. The secret is to toss everything in with a splash of pasta water for a silky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

I've learned that using high-quality olive oil makes a difference in the finished dish. It enhances the flavor and gives just the right richness without weighing down the meal. Each time I serve this, I'm reminded of how a few fresh ingredients can create such a satisfying and wholesome dinner.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation for busy days
Packed with nutritious spinach and garlic
Comforting, yet light and satisfying

Getting the Pasta Just Right

When cooking pasta, achieving the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. Start your water with a generous amount of salt; it should taste like the sea. As the pasta boils, check for doneness a minute or two before the package time. You're aiming for a slightly firm bite that will absorb sauce without becoming mushy, especially since it will continue to cook when you combine it with the garlic and spinach.

Don’t forget to reserve the pasta water! This starchy liquid is a valuable tool for adjusting the consistency of your final dish. Just a splash added to the skillet can help bind the ingredients together and create a light sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

The Role of Fresh Spinach

Fresh spinach adds not only vibrant color but also essential nutrients and flavor to your pasta. When cooking, it wilts quickly—usually within 2-3 minutes—so keep an eye on it. You want to retain its bright green color and slightly crisp texture, which perfectly contrasts with the softer pasta. If you're concerned about excess moisture, you can pat the spinach dry after washing it to prevent making your dish watery.

For a twist, feel free to substitute other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just remember that these may take a little longer to wilt compared to spinach, so adjust your cooking times accordingly. Incorporating a mix of greens can enhance the nutritional profile of your meal.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving, a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavors of this dish. For those looking to keep it vegan, nutritional yeast offers a similar cheesy essence without the dairy. Pair the pasta with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that feels wholesome yet light.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pasta and warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish; just keep in mind that the texture of the spinach may change slightly upon reheating.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Pasta With Spinach And Garlic

8 oz pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
2 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Feel free to customize the pasta and add other vegetables or proteins as you like!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add Spinach

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

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together over low heat until well combined.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately!

This dish can be elevated with your favorite proteins or additional veggies!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your garlic starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat. Garlic can go from fragrant to bitter in a matter of seconds, so keeping it at medium heat and stirring constantly is key. If you accidentally burn it, it's best to start over, as burnt garlic can negatively impact the entire dish's flavor.

Sometimes, the dish may seem too dry after combining the pasta and spinach. If this occurs, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time. This will help create a glossy, cohesive sauce that fully coats the pasta and enhances the overall flavor.

Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to customize this dish with protein. Chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can make it more filling and transform it into a hearty meal. If using chicken or shrimp, sauté them before the garlic, ensuring they’re cooked through and set aside before adding the spinach.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can incorporate a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the end. Both add brightness and a touch of heat that can complement the garlic and spinach beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before adding it to the skillet.

→ What other pasta shapes work well for this recipe?

You can use any pasta shape you enjoy—penne, fusilli, or even whole grain varieties are great options.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be great additions for extra protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring it back to life.