pasta recipe for dinner
The Best pasta recipe for dinner
This recipe is perfect for so many reasons. It’s easy to double or triple the ingredients if you’re feeding a crowd, and it keeps well for leftovers—no one has to waste food. Plus, the fresh tomatoes and basil give it a bright, vibrant flavor that’s satisfying but not heavy. My kids love how the sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and it’s always a hit with guests because it’s not too rich, not too plain—just balanced. And the health benefits? Well, fresh vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains mean it’s a meal that’s good for you without feeling like a chore. It’s that kind of dish that makes me feel good about what I’m putting on the table, and that’s something I never take for granted.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach
A comforting dish featuring al dente pasta tossed with a rich garlic-parmesan cream sauce and fresh spinach for a vibrant touch. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
🥘Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
- 1 cup (100g) fresh spinach
- 3 tbsp (45ml) olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (100g) grated parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup (50g) diced ham or mushrooms
- 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. -
2
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add diced ham or mushrooms (if using) and cook for 2-3 minutes. -
3
Reduce heat to low, pour in heavy cream and milk, and stir until smooth. Add grated parmesan, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. -
4
Add cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing gently to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. -
5
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately with extra parmesan on top.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor (optional)
- Pasta cooker or large pot with boiling water
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For a lighter version, replace half the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of white wine to enhance the flavor.
- Double the sauce for leftovers and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Substitutions
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for variety.
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach
1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
You can use any fresh pasta you prefer—spaghetti, fettuccine, or even fresh tagliatelle works well. For a classic look, fresh egg pasta is ideal, but dried pasta like penne or rigatoni also works if you don’t have fresh. Just ensure it’s short-cut for easier sauce absorption.
2. How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together when cooking?
Boil your pasta in well-salted water (about 1 tablespoon of salt per liter) and stir it gently with a wooden spoon or tongs every 1–2 minutes to prevent clumping. If it starts sticking, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it. Avoid overcrowding the pot—cook in batches if needed.
3. Can I make this pasta recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours (or freeze for up to 3 months). Roll it out and cut into shapes just before cooking. For dried pasta, cook it fresh, but if you’re using fresh pasta, par-cook it (slightly underdone) and finish in the sauce to avoid overcooking.
4. What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pasta?
Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, broth, or pasta water before adding the sauce to create a thin, even layer. Stir frequently, and if needed, add a little more liquid. For creamy sauces, blend the sauce slightly before tossing it with the pasta to help it coat evenly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while cooking.
5. Can I substitute any ingredients in the recipe?
– Olive oil or butter? Yes, swap them 1:1 for a different flavor (e.g., ghee for richness or avocado oil for a neutral taste).
– Garlic? Use shallots or red onions for a milder taste, or add fresh garlic at the end if you prefer.
– Herbs? Fresh basil, parsley, or even cilantro work in place of dried oregano.
– Tomato paste? Use crushed tomatoes or san marzano paste for a smoother texture.
– Cheese? Skip it or add grated Parmesan, Pecorino, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just adjust the sauce slightly if it’s too thin.
