Creamy Lemon Spinach Spaghetti

Experience the perfect balance of bright citrus and velvety cream with this Creamy Lemon Spinach Spaghetti. This light yet indulgent pasta dish features thin spaghetti tossed in a luscious lemon cream sauce, making it a vibrant and comforting vegetarian meal that is ready in just 25 minutes.

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The combination of fresh baby spinach and a citrus-infused cream sauce transforms simple thin spaghetti into an elegant dinner. By using both the zest and the juice of a large lemon, the dish achieves a depth of flavor that is both tangy and soothing.

Ingredients

• 400 g (14 oz) thin spaghetti
• Salt, for pasta water
• 200 g (7 oz) fresh baby spinach
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream
• 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Extra lemon zest (for garnish)
• Additional Parmesan (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.

Step 3

Add the spinach and sauté for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Stir in the lemon zest.

Step 4

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon juice and Parmesan cheese, letting the cheese melt and the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 5

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. If needed, gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve a silky, creamy consistency.

Step 6

Season generously with black pepper and adjust salt to taste.

Step 7

Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest and additional Parmesan.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfect sauce, use a microplane to create a very fine lemon zest that integrates seamlessly into the cream. Always remember to reserve the pasta water before draining; its starch content is the secret to achieving that professional, silky consistency in the final skillet toss.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly versatile. You can substitute the spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the garlic works wonders. If you are looking to increase the protein, this dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this pasta immediately while warm to enjoy the sauce at its best. It pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the bright acidity of the lemon. Finish each plate with a fresh grating of Parmesan and an extra pinch of zest.

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With its simple preparation and sophisticated flavor, this Creamy Lemon Spinach Spaghetti is a perfect example of how high-quality ingredients can turn a few basic steps into a restaurant-quality weeknight dinner.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This pasta is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy and glossy. If you need to prepare ahead, undercook the pasta slightly and store separately from the sauce. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or pasta water to restore consistency before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half works for a lighter version, though the sauce will be less rich. For dairy-free options, coconut cream creates a similarly thick texture with subtle coconut flavor. Cashew cream is another excellent alternative that maintains luxurious mouthfeel.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Keep heat at medium-low once cream is added and avoid boiling vigorously. Stir continuously when incorporating Parmesan. The key is gentle heat and constant movement. If sauce does separate, whisk vigorously off-heat while adding small amounts of pasta water.

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, linguine, or angel hair work beautifully with this sauce. Short pasta like penne or fusilli captures the sauce in different ways. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions and reserve pasta water before draining.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding small splashes of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating as it can cause the cream to separate and become grainy.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Unfortunately, cream-based sauces don't freeze well as they can separate and become grainy upon thawing. The pasta also tends to become mushy. For best results, enjoy freshly made or refrigerate for 2-3 days maximum.