Spinach and Lemon Pasta

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Additional Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) dried pasta (such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450g) fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps to Cook:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden.

3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to taste.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy spinach sauce.

6. Serve the spinach and lemon pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cook’s Note:

• For a creamier sauce, you can add an extra 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream.
• If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
• You can use baby spinach or regular spinach in this recipe. If using regular spinach, you may need to chop it into smaller pieces before cooking.
• This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Nutrition Facts:

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe Calories: 410 Total Fat: 22g Saturated Fat: 9g Cholesterol: 45mg Sodium: 330mg Total Carbohydrates: 41g Dietary Fiber: 4g Sugars: 2g Protein: 15g

This spinach and lemon pasta dish is a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the fresh flavors of spinach, lemon, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.

The key to this dish’s success is the balance of flavors. The lemon zest and juice add a bright, citrusy note that complements the rich creaminess of the sauce, while the Parmesan cheese provides a savory, umami element. The spinach adds a lovely, verdant touch and a boost of nutrients, making this pasta dish a wholesome and satisfying option.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can use any type of pasta you prefer, from linguine to spaghetti to fettuccine. The dish also works well with different types of spinach, from baby spinach to regular spinach, depending on your personal preference. If you’re looking to add a little more heat, the optional red pepper flakes can provide a subtle kick.

In terms of nutrition, this spinach and lemon pasta dish is a great choice. It’s packed with protein from the Parmesan cheese and the pasta, and it’s also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the spinach. The heavy cream provides a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats, while the olive oil adds additional beneficial unsaturated fats.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a main course, paired with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables, or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or fish. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as the leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated gently before serving.

Overall, this spinach and lemon pasta dish is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to please your taste buds and nourish your body. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish, this recipe is a great choice that’s both easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients.