Linda's Spinach Pasta Fresca
Discover the vibrant flavors of *Linda's Spinach Pasta Fresca*, a quick and wholesome pasta dish that brings fresh, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients to your table in just 30 minutes! This easy-to-make recipe combines al dente spaghetti with sautéed garlic, burst cherry tomatoes, and tender wilted spinach, all enhanced by a refreshing hit of lemon zest and juice. A touch of red pepper flakes adds mild heat, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese provides the perfect creamy finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light, satisfying dinner, this dish is packed with nutrients and boasts a bright, zesty flavor profile that’s both comforting and energizing. Serve it with extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for restaurant-quality finesse, and enjoy every bite of this healthy and delicious crowd-pleaser!
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Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 whole garlic cloves
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 whole lemon
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 3
Thinly slice the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 4
Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to burst and release their juices.
Step 5
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
Step 6
Zest the lemon and then cut it in half. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Step 7
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together and cook for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
Step 8
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta, tossing to combine.
Step 9
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (925.5g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1231.4 |
| Total Fat 60.5g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 16.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g | |
| Cholesterol 44.5mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2797.1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 132.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 15.1g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 12.5g | |
| Protein 42.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 669.3mg | 0% |
| Iron 11.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1013.3mg | 0% |
Source of Calories