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Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and comforting textures. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each strand coated in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce, punctuated by the vibrant green of fresh spinach. This dish not only captures the essence of Italian cuisine but also embodies a harmony of flavors that can appeal to a wide audience. The combination of garlic, cream, and spinach creates a symphony of tastes that is both satisfying and indulgent, making it a favorite choice for family dinners, romantic dates, or even a cozy night in.

Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta

Discover the deliciousness of Creamy Garlic Spinach Pasta, a dish that perfectly blends rich flavors with comforting textures. Imagine twirling tender pasta coated in a luscious garlic cream sauce, highlighted by fresh spinach. This versatile recipe works beautifully as a hearty vegetarian meal or a side for grilled proteins. Packed with nutrition and bursting with taste, it's an ideal choice for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy nights at home. Enjoy the art of homemade cooking while savoring every flavorful bite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) pasta (fettuccine or penne works wonderfully)

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta, cooking it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente tenderness. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be vigilant to prevent it from burning, as garlic can become bitter when overcooked.

      Add the Spinach: Next, incorporate the roughly chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts down and reduces in volume.

        Create the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and pour in the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the Italian seasoning. Allow this mixture to simmer for approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Introduce the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy mixture. If the sauce appears too thick, slowly incorporate a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency.

            Season: Stir in the zest of one lemon and fresh lemon juice, then season to taste with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

              Serve: To serve, divide the creamy garlic spinach pasta among individual plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

                Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious creamy garlic spinach pasta while it’s hot for the best flavor and texture!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 25 min | 4 servings