If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort, spinach linguine is the perfect choice. Its delicate balance of flavors and vibrant green color make it not only delicious but visually appealing. Below, we’ll explore an easy spinach linguine recipe, tips for enhancing its flavor, and variations to suit any preference.
Linguine with Spinach, Lemon Cream, and Parmesan
This quick and flavorful dish combines the tangy zest of lemons with the creamy richness of Parmesan, complemented by tender spinach and julienned zucchini. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb linguine
- 1 lb baby spinach
- 2 firm zucchinis julienned (optional)
- 2 lemons zested and juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Veggies
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the linguine until almost al dente (about 9 minutes).
- Add the spinach and zucchini (if using) to the pot. Cook for 2 more minutes until the linguine is al dente and the spinach is tender.
- Prepare the Sauce
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the empty pot, combine the pasta water, cream, and lemon zest. Cook over medium-low heat until slightly thickened.
- Combine and Serve
- Toss the drained linguine, spinach, and zucchini in the sauce. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Spinach Linguine Aglio e Olio
For those who love simplicity, this garlicky spinach pasta topped with crispy breadcrumbs is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 1 lb linguine
- 3 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 lb fresh spinach rinsed and chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Topping
- Mix breadcrumbs, Pecorino Romano, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Cook the Spinach
- Heat olive oil in a pan over low heat. Add garlic slices and cook until golden. Remove garlic and add red pepper flakes.
- Toss spinach in the flavored oil until wilted. Remove from heat.
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil linguine in salted water. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine and Bake
- Mix pasta, spinach, and reserved water. Top with breadcrumbs and Pecorino Romano.
- Broil for 2 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden.
Tips for Perfect Spinach Linguine
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and lemons enhance the flavor.
- Balance the Creaminess: Adjust cream and cheese to your taste. For a lighter dish, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or omit it entirely.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for a protein boost.
Final Thoughts
Spinach linguine is a versatile and easy dinner option that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you prefer creamy sauces or garlicky simplicity, these recipes offer something for everyone.
Try these recipes, and don’t forget to share your creations! Tag us on social media or leave a comment below.
Happy cooking! 😊