This summer, I’m on a mission to incorporate as many veggies into my meals as possible. And this fresh Spinach Pasta delivers with 100g of spinach per serving! The lush green color is not only gorgeous but also a sign of how nutritious it is. This dish is super easy to make and incredibly hearty and satisfying—you’ll find yourself making it way more often than you’d expect!
Spinach is one of those underrated superfoods that often gets overlooked. Most recipes don’t do it justice, but not this one! In this dish, spinach is blended into a creamy, garlicky sauce with cream cheese, elevating it to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s also a clever way to sneak in some greens, especially if you have picky eaters at home. And let’s not forget how stunning it looks with its vibrant, lush green color!
When it comes to taste, the flavors of this Spinach Pasta are absolutely delightful! The creamy spinach sauce is rich and garlicky, with a subtle tang from the cream cheese that perfectly complements the fresh, vibrant flavor of the spinach. The pasta itself is tender and holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. And if you sprinkle on some Parmesan and toasted pine nuts, you get a lovely nutty crunch that takes it to a whole new level!
What makes this pasta so great?
This Spinach and Cream Cheese Pasta recipe is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something delicious. It’s a simple, wholesome, and incredibly tasty dish that I’m sure will become a staple in your meal rotation. If you ever find yourself in need of a quick yet delicious dinner that doesn’t require a ton of ingredients or time, this dish is the perfect choice! A lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- It’s super quick and easy! You can have this dish on the table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you just can’t deal with anything complicated.
- This Spinach pasta does not only look gorgeous, but is also super delicious and comforting. The creamy spinach sauce is so satisfying, it feels like you’re indulging in something much more decadent than it actually is.
- Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, making this pasta not just tasty but also very nutritious.
Ingredients
Pasta – Fusilli pasta is my go-to for this recipe, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand. The ridges on fusilli really help to hold onto that creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Fresh Spinach – Adds vibrant color, mild earthy flavor, and nutrients like vitamins A and C. You can also use baby spinach for tender leaves and quicker cooking.
Olive Oil – Provides a light, fruity flavor and is used for sautéing the onion and garlic. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer taste.
Onion – Adds sweet and savory depth to the dish when chopped and sautéed. Try red onion for a milder flavor or caramelizing for added sweetness.
Garlic – You can add as much garlic as you like to this dish, just make sure doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
Cream cheese – Adds richness, creaminess, and a slight tanginess to the sauce. You can opt for low-fat cream cheese if you want a lighter option.
Salt & Pepper – Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Grated for a nutty, salty flavor and used as a finishing touch. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for superior taste.
Pine nuts – Optional, toasted for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, perfect for garnishing. Substitute with toasted almonds or walnuts for variation.
Tips for recipe success
- Fresh spinach works best for this recipe. It cooks down beautifully and blends into a smooth sauce.
- Don’t skip the pasta water! The reserved pasta water helps to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly. It’s a little trick that makes a big difference.
- If you’re using pine nuts, toasting them adds a wonderful nutty flavor and a bit of crunch. It’s an optional step but highly recommended!
Easy Cream Cheese Spinach Pasta
Course: Dinner, LunchCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy2
servings10
minutes20
minutes627
kcal30
minutesThis summer, elevate your veggie game with this quick and easy Spinach Pasta recipe. Packed with 100g of spinach per serving, it’s not only nutritious but also deliciously rich and creamy, thanks to the blend of spinach, garlic, and cream cheese. The vibrant green color is as inviting as the taste, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking to add more greens to your diet or just want a satisfying meal, this Spinach Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
200g fusilli pasta (or any other pasta of your choice)
200g fresh spinach
2 tsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
150ml water
50g cream cheese
Salt
Pepper
Parmesan cheese
15g pine nuts, toasted (optional)
Directions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Season generously with salt (about 1 teaspoon per liter of water) and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, then add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the fresh spinach to the pot along with 150ml of water. Cover with a lid and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is completely wilted.
- Add the cream cheese to the spinach mixture. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and well combined.
- Using a handheld immersion blender (or transfer carefully to a regular blender), blend the spinach mixture until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the pot with the blended spinach sauce to low heat. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with the reserved pasta water. Toss gently until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Divide the Spinach and Cream Cheese Pasta among serving plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts (if using) for an extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoyyy!
