This Quick Spinach Pasta is a lifesaver when you’re in a hurry! With fresh spinach and al dente pasta, it’s both healthy and tasty. Toss in some garlic for extra flavor!
I love how this dish comes together in no time. Just cook the pasta, sauté the spinach, and mix it all up. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy fast!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne is perfect for this dish because its shape holds onto the sauce. If you have other pasta types at home, like rotini or fusilli, they work great too!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a lovely color and nutrients. If it’s not available, you can use frozen spinach—just thaw and drain it well before adding.
Heavy Cream: I love using heavy cream for richness, but Greek yogurt offers a lighter alternative that still gives creaminess. Just mix it in slowly to prevent curdling!
Cheese: Parmesan cheese brings out amazing flavors. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano works well too. Or, try a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s flavors. You could use butter for a richer taste, though I prefer the lightness of oil here.
How Do I Cook Perfectly Wilted Spinach?
Wilting spinach is quick, but you want to do it just right. Here’s how to get the best result:
- Start with a hot skillet. Add your oil before the garlic—this helps to infuse the flavor.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, throw in the spinach. Use tongs to toss it around for even cooking.
- After about 2-3 minutes, you’ll see it wilt beautifully. Remove from heat to keep that vibrant green color.
Remember, overcooking can make spinach mushy and dull! Keep an eye on it for that perfect, slight crunch.
How to Make Quick Spinach Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious quick spinach pasta takes about 20 minutes to prepare. It’s a fast and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet it delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, carefully drain the pasta, but be sure to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later. Set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pot you used for the pasta, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not browned—this adds wonderful flavor to the dish!
3. Cook the Spinach:
Add the chopped fresh spinach to the pot and cook for about 2-3 minutes. You want the spinach to wilt down but still retain its vibrant color. Stir it occasionally for even cooking.
4. Mix in the Cream:
Now, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream (or Greek yogurt if you chose that option). Stir everything together gently until it’s well combined and heated through, which should take just a minute or two.
5. Combine the Pasta:
Add your drained penne pasta to the spinach and cream mixture. Pour in a little of the reserved pasta water if you need to loosen the sauce. Gently toss everything together. This is where the magic happens!
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and season your pasta with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Toss well until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly mixed.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your quick spinach pasta is ready! Serve it immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a little extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream with Milk or Alternative Creams?
Yes, you can use milk or other non-dairy creams, but keep in mind that the sauce may be thinner. If you use milk, consider adding a bit of flour to thicken or some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For a richer option, try half-and-half.
What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just remember that flavor intensity may differ, so adjust to taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stove to help restore creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the spinach for a delicious twist!
