Name: Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces spaghetti; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 6 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a quick, cozy, and irresistibly tasty dinner, look no further than Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach. This inviting recipe celebrates the simple magic that happens when garlic meets fresh greens and pasta. Imagine coming home on a busy weeknight and whipping up a restaurant-worthy meal with just a handful of pantry staples—this spaghetti makes it possible! Did you know that Italians often refer to spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and oil) as comfort food at its finest? By tipping in handfuls of fresh spinach, you add a boost of color, nutrition, and flavor without any extra fuss. Loved by picky eaters and foodies alike, this dish is as perfect for family dinners as it is for solo nights in. If you enjoyed my popular Creamy Lemon Alfredo, you’ll absolutely adore how light yet satisfying this recipe is. Let’s get twirling and create a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

What is Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach?

What’s in a name, you ask? Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach is exactly what it sounds like—a glorious tangle of pasta slicked in garlicky olive oil and tossed with heaps of vibrant spinach. Who knew that two humble ingredients could make such a show-stopping dinner? Maybe you’ve heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Well, I think you’ll win everyone’s heart with this dish, no matter who’s at your table! The combination is so simple, you might wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Don’t just take my word for it—grab your apron and let’s taste why this classic never goes out of style!

Why You’ll Love This

First and foremost, Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach shines with its simplicity. The main highlight? That divine aroma of fresh garlic sizzling in olive oil, mingling with tender spinach and perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s like your kitchen becomes a cozy Italian trattoria! Another reason to love this dish: it’s super budget-friendly. Skip the takeout and you can treat a whole family for the price of a few pantry staples, plus fresh greens. What sets it apart is the finishing touch of tangy lemon and a generous dusting of Parmesan—each bite is bright, savory, and oh so satisfying. If you’ve tried my Roasted Vegetable Pasta, you’ll appreciate how this recipe offers deep flavor with even fewer steps. Trust me, your wallet and your tastebuds will thank you—give it a try tonight and see!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Get ready for an easy and flavorful dinner in under 30 minutes! Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach comes together with just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have on hand. The technique couldn’t be simpler: a quick sauté, a toss with freshly cooked pasta, and you’re done! The magic is all in the timing and the layering of flavor—a few minutes is all it takes to infuse your pasta with irresistible garlicky goodness and the vibrant pop of spinach. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, you’ll love how effortlessly this dish fits into your weeknight routine.

Ingredients

8 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
6 cups fresh spinach
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sliced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned. If you like a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes now.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook, tossing gently, until the spinach is just wilted—about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the spinach and garlic. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until your desired sauciness is achieved.
Serve immediately, topped generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

What to Serve Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach With

This versatile pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad—try mixed lettuce with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp make wonderful add-ons. A side of warm garlic bread or a simple bruschetta highlights the Italian flavors, while a glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio) completes the meal. For vegetarians, roasted chickpeas or cannellini beans offer a hearty addition. If you’re in the mood for comfort, serve with a bowl of homemade tomato soup or a plate of marinated olives. The possibilities are endless!

Top Tips for Perfecting

To ensure your Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach truly shines, start with high-quality olive oil and don’t rush the garlic—let it cook gently so it infuses the oil without burning. If you don’t have fresh spinach, baby kale or arugula are great substitutes. Whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti also work; simply adjust the cooking time as needed. Want a punch of protein? Stir in a can of drained white beans or top with a fried egg. The key mistake to avoid is overcrowding the skillet with spinach—add it in batches if needed so everything wilts evenly. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and a dash of lemon for the ultimate finish!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep things moist. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the delicate texture of spinach, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time to make dinner a breeze. If you must freeze, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month—though the texture of spinach will soften. Always reheat until piping hot for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just thaw it completely, squeeze out excess water, and reduce the amount to about 2 cups since it’s more compact.

Is this recipe vegan?
It can be! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make it completely vegan.

What pasta shapes work best with this recipe?
Spaghetti is classic, but you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even short shapes like penne. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different pasta types.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini are delicious additions. Sauté them along with the garlic before adding the spinach.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep the heat on medium and stir constantly while cooking the garlic. As soon as it turns golden and fragrant, move on to the next step.

Conclusion

Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach is proof that simple ingredients can deliver unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick meal for yourself, this recipe offers satisfaction and comfort in every bite. From its fragrant aroma to its tender pasta and verdant greens, this dish never fails to please. Ready in less than 30 minutes and endlessly customizable, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere. Give it a whirl tonight, and let your kitchen fill with the scents and tastes of a true Italian classic—you just might discover a new favorite!