Description
A creamy garlic spinach penne that blends indulgence with nourishment, done in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight meals with dietary flexibility and Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Pasta (penne or rigatoni)
Fresh baby spinach – 4 cups, rough chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Heavy cream (or oat/coconut cream)
Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
Red pepper flakes – to taste
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach and sauté with tongs just until wilted (2-3 minutes).
4. Stir in cream and bring to simmer. Add pasta water as needed for consistency.
5. Mix in cheese or substitute, red pepper flakes, and cooked pasta. Toss until glossy.
6. Serve hot with cracked pepper and parmesan or toasted breadcrumbs.
Notes
For dairy-free, use oat or coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
Avoid overcooking spinach to prevent sogginess.
Add lemon zest or cherry tomatoes for brightness.
Pairs well with salmon or Mediterranean-style toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: spinach pasta, garlic cream sauce, vegetarian, gluten-free option