Description
A quick and flavorful Spinach Spaghetti with Garlic Crumbs recipe that combines al dente pasta, sautéed baby spinach, zesty lemon, and crunchy garlic-infused breadcrumbs topped with parmesan cheese. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz (220 grams) spaghetti (or any other long pasta)
- Salt, to taste (for pasta water)
- ½ cup hot pasta water, reserved
Garlic Crumbs
- 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons garlic cloves, divided (about 2 medium cloves)
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Spinach & Seasoning
- ½ lb (220 grams) baby spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, or more to taste
- ½ lemon zest
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the hot pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Toast the breadcrumbs: In a skillet over medium heat, warm ½ tablespoon of olive oil. Add 1 minced garlic clove, breadcrumbs, and chili flakes (if using). Cook, stirring frequently, until the crumbs are golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, then transfer the mixture to a small bowl and set aside.
- Cook the spinach: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 minced garlic clove. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add 1 tablespoon of reserved pasta water and add the baby spinach in batches, stirring continuously until wilted. Turn off the heat, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and serve: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the spinach. Toss in lemon juice, lemon zest, and the garlic breadcrumb mixture. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to help combine and loosen the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as desired. Serve immediately with additional grated parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and extra chili flakes for heat if preferred. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to help bind and loosen the sauce as needed.
- Use fresh garlic to enhance the flavor of the garlic crumbs and spinach.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten free if needed.
- Lemon juice adds brightness—add gradually and taste as you go.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the garlic crumbs’ crunchiness before they soften.
