Pasta with Spinach Sauce

Pasta with spinach sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious dish that comes together quickly for a perfect weeknight meal. This recipe combines fresh spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese into a rich, velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional creamy sauces or just want to incorporate more greens into your diet, this dish delivers on both taste and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from fresh spinach.
• Creamy without heavy cream – Blended spinach creates a rich and silky sauce without needing excess dairy.
• Customizable – Works well with different pasta types, cheeses, and additional protein options.
• Kid-friendly – A great way to sneak in more greens without compromising on flavor.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• Fresh spinach
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Heavy cream or milk (optional for extra creaminess)
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta – Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté aromatics – In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened.
3. Cook the spinach – Add fresh spinach to the pan and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Blend the sauce – Transfer the spinach mixture to a blender. Add a splash of broth and blend until smooth.
5. Combine with pasta – Return the blended sauce to the pan, stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add pasta and toss to coat. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Serve immediately – Garnish with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add protein – Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for extra heartiness.
• Make it vegan – Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk instead of dairy.
• Use different cheeses – Try ricotta or goat cheese for a different creamy texture.
• Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta – A great alternative for dietary preferences.
• Add nuts – Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add crunch and extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate and lose its creamy texture.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the sauce.

FAQs

How can I make the sauce even creamier?

For extra creaminess, blend in some ricotta, cream cheese, or a little extra Parmesan cheese.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes! Thaw and drain frozen spinach before blending to avoid excess liquid in the sauce.

What pasta works best with spinach sauce?

Spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, and rigatoni all work well, as they hold onto the sauce nicely.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The mild flavors make it appealing to kids, and blending the spinach hides the greens.

Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes, you can blend the sauce ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before mixing with pasta.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast, pecorino, or even feta cheese can be good substitutes.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually while mixing to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers add more depth of flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be! Simply use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-intolerant diets.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Basil, parsley, or thyme can enhance the flavor and freshness of the sauce.

Conclusion

Pasta with spinach sauce is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a way to incorporate more greens into your diet, this creamy spinach sauce delivers flavor and health benefits in every bite. Try it out with different variations and enjoy a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes!

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