Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach

🌿 Spaghetti with Garlic & Spinach (Mediterranean Style)

Description

This light yet satisfying Mediterranean pasta highlights the beauty of simple ingredients. Al dente spaghetti is tossed with fragrant garlic, extra-virgin olive oil, tender wilted spinach, and a hint of chili heat. Finished with lemon zest and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s fresh, nourishing, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy lunch.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 250 g (9 oz) spaghetti (whole wheat preferred)

• 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

• 5–6 cups fresh spinach (baby spinach works best)

• Zest of ½ lemon

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino (optional)

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Sauté the Garlic
   Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium-low heat. Add garlic slices and cook gently until fragrant and lightly golden (do not burn).

3. Add Chili & Spinach
   Stir in chili flakes, then add spinach in batches. Cook just until wilted.

4. Combine with Pasta
   Add drained spaghetti to the pan. Toss well, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.

5. Finish Mediterranean-Style
   Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and adjust salt. Remove from heat.

6. Serve
   Top with grated cheese and fresh herbs if using. Serve warm.

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🌱 Mediterranean Tips

• Use high-quality olive oil—it’s the star.

• Keep garlic golden, not brown, for authentic flavor.

• Lemon adds brightness typical of coastal Mediterranean cooking.

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❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes! Skip the cheese or use a vegan Parmesan alternative.

Q: Can I add protein?
A: Absolutely—grilled shrimp, chickpeas, white beans, or seared chicken fit beautifully.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes, thaw and squeeze it very dry before adding.

Q: Is whole wheat pasta necessary?
A: Not required, but it’s more traditional and fiber-rich in Mediterranean diets.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or olive oil.