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45 Easy Pasta Recipes: Lemon Spinach Pasta

Experience a burst of flavor with this Zesty Lemon Spinach Pasta! This quick and easy dish features perfectly cooked spaghetti or fettuccine tossed with fresh spinach, zesty lemon juice, and fragrant garlic, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a refreshing meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil and lemon slices for that extra touch of brightness! Enjoy this delightful pasta dish today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine

2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

1/4 cup olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).

      Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the chopped spinach, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.

        Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

          Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

            Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a lemon slice. Optionally, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings