Name: Spinach Pasta Recipe: Fresh and Vibrant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: Spinach Pasta:; 1 cup fresh spinach leaves (packed); 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp olive oil; Garlic Olive Oil Sauce:; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 garlic cloves (thinly sliced); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup reserved pasta water; Optional: Fresh spinach (extra Parmesan); Suggested Pairings: White wine (garlic bread)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Spinach Pasta is a vibrant, wholesome dish, perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep. This fresh, homemade pasta, infused with spinach for a vivid green hue, is tossed in a simple garlic and olive oil sauce, delivering a light, earthy flavor with a tender, silky texture. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, optionally garnished with fresh spinach leaves or grated Parmesan, this Spinach Pasta recipe offers an elegant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple homemade version with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings fresh, Italian-inspired charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Spinach Pasta:

1 cup fresh spinach leaves, packed (or 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Garlic Olive Oil Sauce:

1/4 cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Serving:

Optional: Fresh spinach leaves, extra grated Parmesan
Suggested Accompaniments: Green salad, garlic bread
Suggested Pairings: White wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Food processor or blender, pasta machine or rolling pin, large pot, colander, large skillet, knife, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Spinach: If using fresh spinach, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Drain and squeeze out excess water. In a food processor or blender, puree spinach with eggs until smooth.
Make Pasta Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well and add the spinach-egg mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Taste and Adjust: Pinch off a small piece of dough (safe due to cooked end product) and taste; adjust with a pinch more salt if needed to ensure a balanced flavor.
Roll and Cut Pasta: Divide the dough into 4 pieces. Using a pasta machine or rolling pin, roll each piece to 1/16-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., fettuccine, tagliatelle). Dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fresh pasta for 2–4 minutes until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Make Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Remove from heat.
Taste and Adjust Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch more salt, pepper, or Parmesan to ensure a balanced flavor.
Toss Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water 1 tbsp at a time if needed for a silky consistency. Stir in Parmesan cheese.
Serve: Transfer to a white ceramic bowl. Optionally garnish with fresh spinach leaves or extra Parmesan. Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, white wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Spinach Pasta

Squeeze spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the dough; too much water makes it sticky.
Taste the dough and sauce before cooking to balance earthy and savory flavors; adjust sparingly.
Roll dough thinly for tender pasta; use a pasta machine for consistent thickness.
Cook fresh pasta briefly to maintain al dente texture; it cooks faster than dried pasta.
Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the vibrant green pasta and garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare dough up to 1 day in advance; store wrapped in the fridge. Cook fresh or dry for later use.
Dust cut pasta with flour to prevent sticking during preparation.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with spinach leaves or Parmesan for a fresh, elegant pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Spinach Pasta: Use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum for the dough.
Vegan Spinach Pasta: Replace eggs with 1/2 cup water and 1 tbsp flaxseed meal; use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for the sauce.
Low-Sodium Spinach Pasta: Reduce salt to a pinch in both dough and sauce.
Creamy Spinach Pasta: Add 1/4 cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
Vegetable Spinach Pasta: Add 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms or cherry tomatoes to the sauce.
Herbed Spinach Pasta: Add 1 tsp dried basil or oregano to the dough or sauce.
Spicy Spinach Pasta: Increase red pepper flakes to 1/2 tsp or add a sliced chili to the sauce.
Lemon Spinach Pasta: Add 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp lemon zest to the sauce for brightness.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store fresh, uncooked pasta wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month; cook from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to cooking time.
Store cooked pasta with sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil.
Do not freeze cooked pasta with sauce, as the texture may become mushy.
Serve warm for the best silky, flavorful texture.
Use as a main dish or side for Italian-inspired meals.
Pair with white wine or sparkling water to complement the fresh, earthy flavors.
Present in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for a vibrant, elegant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings (1.5 cups each):

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 12g
Vitamin A: 30% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 10% Daily Value
Calcium: 15% Daily Value
Iron: 15% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (vegan options reduce cholesterol). Moderate in calories; pair with light sides for balance.

Conclusion

This Spinach Pasta recipe delivers a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for family dinners or date nights, transforming simple ingredients into an Italian-inspired favorite. Its easy preparation and elegant presentation make it a go-to. The earthy pasta and light sauce delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing charm.