Description
A quick and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish with wilted spinach and toasted pine nuts in a creamy Parmesan sauce. The rich, nutty flavor contrasts with the earthy spinach, making it a family favorite that comes together in under 30 minutes. Simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
Pasta (spaghetti/fettuccine/penne) 1 lb (450g)
Fresh spinach 5–8 oz
Pine nuts 1/3–1/2 cup
Extra virgin olive oil 3–4 tbsp
Garlic 3–4 cloves
Red pepper flakes 1/4 tsp
Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Instructions
Boil 4-6 quarts salted water in a large pot
Add pasta and cook for 6 minutes for al dente (follow package time)
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining
Over medium-low heat (around 300°F), heat skillet for 1 minute
Add pine nuts and shake the pan constantly for 2-3 minutes until golden
Immediately transfer pine nuts to a bowl to cool
Return the skillet to heat, add 3 tbsp olive oil
Cook garlic and red pepper flakes for 1 minute
Swirl in spinach, cover the skillet, and cook 2 minutes until wilted
Stir in reserved pasta water, then add cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, tossing to combine
Add more pasta water as needed to create a smooth, cohesive sauce
Serve with additional Parmesan and lemon wedges if desired
Notes
Use bronze-cut pasta for better sauce grip. Substitute kale for spinach in winter for extra heartiness. Pine nuts can be replaced with walnuts for a bolder flavor. To prepare a vegan version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast. Microwave garlic for 30 seconds to remove the raw bite and enhance mellow flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: lunch
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg