Go Back

Lemon Pasta with Spinach

This Lemon Pasta with Spinach is a light, creamy, and refreshing Italian-inspired pasta dish made with tender pasta, fresh spinach, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and bright lemon. It's an easy weeknight meal that's ready in under 30 minutes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 435
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 cup lemon (zest and juice)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra Parmesan, for serving

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • 1 Set measuring cups
  • 1 Set measuring spoon
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Microplane or zester
  • 1 Citrus juicer
  • 1 Cheese Grater
  • 1 Pasta tongs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  4. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in the spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, until wilted.
  7. Add the cooked pasta, lemon zest, lemon juice, reserved pasta water, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  8. Toss everything together until well coated.
  9. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted into a light, creamy sauce.
  10. Remove from the heat and let the pasta rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  11. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts much better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce.
  • Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon for extra protein.
  • For a richer flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.