This creamy garlic pasta with wilted spinach is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples, it comes together in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick yet comforting.
The tender strands of pasta are coated in garlicky olive oil and tossed with loads of fresh spinach for a nourishing, vibrant twist. A splash of reserved pasta water gives it a silky texture without the need for heavy cream. Top it with chili flakes or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an added kick. It’s proof that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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9 oz (250g) spaghetti or linguine
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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10 oz (300g) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
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1/2 cup reserved pasta water
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: chili flakes, lemon zest, grated Parmesan or vegan alternative
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.
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While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
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Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the spinach. Toss well to combine.
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Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to help loosen and coat the pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
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Serve immediately with a sprinkle of lemon zest and grated Parmesan if desired.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
A Simple, Wholesome Weeknight Favorite
Pasta with spinach is one of those quietly comforting dishes that manages to check all the boxes: it’s fast, healthy, affordable, and endlessly customizable. In a world of overly complex recipes and gourmet pressure, this recipe stands as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest combinations deliver the most satisfying results.
The beauty of this dish lies in its minimalism. Made with just a handful of everyday ingredients—spaghetti, fresh spinach, garlic, olive oil, and optional toppings—it’s a meal that’s likely already hiding in your pantry and fridge. But don’t be fooled by the simplicity. When cooked well, the garlic-infused oil coats the pasta perfectly, and the wilted spinach adds freshness, nutrition, and a pop of vibrant green that feels light yet comforting.
Why This Dish Works
This pasta dish works because it embraces balance. It offers a mild, neutral base (pasta), a bold flavor component (garlic), and a green, earthy element (spinach). These components harmonize beautifully, creating a comforting yet bright bowl of pasta that’s suitable for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
From a cooking standpoint, it’s nearly foolproof. Boil pasta, sauté garlic, add spinach, toss it all together. That’s it. With no sauce to babysit and no advanced culinary skills required, it becomes a staple for beginner cooks, busy parents, or anyone who wants real food fast.
It’s also easily adapted to dietary needs. Vegans can enjoy it as-is or sprinkle nutritional yeast for extra flavor. Cheese lovers can add freshly grated Parmesan. Need more protein? Toss in some white beans, chickpeas, or pan-seared tofu. Craving spice? Add chili flakes or a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste.
A Nutritional Powerhouse in Disguise
Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. It’s packed with iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber—all while being very low in calories. Incorporating a generous amount of spinach into your pasta gives your body a much-needed boost without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor for health.
Pairing spinach with olive oil (a healthy fat) and garlic (rich in antioxidants) only amplifies the health benefits. This dish supports heart health, digestion, and energy levels, making it an ideal recipe for those striving for a balanced lifestyle without giving up their favorite foods.
Plus, since the spinach wilts down significantly when cooked, even spinach skeptics often find this preparation more approachable than raw greens.
The Secret is in the Pasta Water
One small but essential step that elevates this dish is saving a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy liquid helps emulsify the olive oil and create a light, silky “sauce” that clings to the noodles without overpowering them. It’s a pro move that adds a restaurant-quality finish to an otherwise humble meal.
This technique is commonly used in traditional Italian cooking and is especially helpful when no cream or butter is involved. It lets the natural ingredients shine while adding texture and depth.
Versatility is the Key Ingredient
One of the most appealing qualities of this pasta recipe is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, the portion sizes are easy to scale. Don’t have fresh spinach? Use frozen. Out of spaghetti? Try penne, linguine, or even gluten-free pasta. Want a protein boost? Add grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas.
For seasonal spins, you can stir in cherry tomatoes in summer, mushrooms in fall, or a touch of lemon zest and juice in spring. You can also add chopped nuts for crunch, a spoonful of pesto for herbal depth, or a splash of cream for a richer texture.
This dish doesn’t follow strict rules—it’s a canvas.
A Budget-Friendly Go-To
With rising food prices, more home cooks are seeking meals that stretch ingredients without sacrificing nutrition or taste. Pasta with spinach is a great solution. You’ll use pantry staples like pasta and olive oil, and only a few fresh ingredients like garlic and spinach, which are often inexpensive and easy to find year-round.
Even if you’re on a tight budget, this meal delivers on taste and satisfaction. Plus, it stores well and makes excellent leftovers, especially when reheated with a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the noodles.
Great for Beginners and Busy Cooks
This recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly. No need for fancy equipment or cooking techniques—just a pot for pasta and a skillet for sautéing. It’s also fast: you can have dinner on the table in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
Busy professionals, students, and parents alike will appreciate that this meal doesn’t require pre-planning or complicated prep work. It’s a recipe that gives back your time without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
Perfect for Meal Prep or Next-Day Lunches
Because it reheats well, this pasta with spinach is also ideal for meal prep. You can double or triple the recipe and portion it out for the week. It makes a delicious lunch when paired with a side salad, or a great base for building a more elaborate dinner.
Add reheated leftovers to a soup, transform it into a baked pasta, or toss it with a bit of tomato sauce for a quick variation. With such a flexible base, one simple recipe can turn into several different meals throughout the week.
Pairing Ideas
If you’re planning a full meal, this pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, a side of crusty bread, or a light appetizer like roasted vegetables. To drink, a glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) complements the garlic and spinach perfectly. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or cucumber keeps the meal fresh and light.
It also works wonderfully alongside a protein main for more complete meals. Try serving it with a piece of grilled salmon, pan-fried tofu, or roasted chicken thighs.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleaser
You might think spinach wouldn’t win over picky eaters, but this dish proves otherwise. The garlic and olive oil mellow the flavor of the spinach, making it much more palatable for children and those hesitant about greens.
It’s also a great “gateway” recipe for introducing more vegetables into your family’s diet. Even better, the whole thing can be served family-style right from the skillet or tossed into a large bowl for sharing at the dinner table.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
In a world flooded with complicated recipes and ultra-processed foods, this pasta with spinach is a refreshing return to simplicity. It celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients and proves that healthy food doesn’t have to be expensive, time-consuming, or boring.
It’s the kind of meal that’s ready when you are—no stress, no special trips to the grocery store. It works when you’re short on time, energy, or inspiration. And yet, it delivers a deeply satisfying result that feels both nourishing and comforting.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your journey in the kitchen, this dish deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. It’s flexible, budget-friendly, quick to prepare, and endlessly delicious.
Try it once, and it’s likely to become one of your go-to meals—especially on those nights when you want something good, fast, and from the heart.