Creamy Spinach Penne 🍝🌱

This delightful Creamy Spinach Penne is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will please everyone at the dinner table! The rich, creamy sauce envelops the penne pasta, while the fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and a dose of nutrition. It’s easy to whip up for a weeknight meal or to impress guests for a special occasion. Pair it with garlic bread and a light salad for a complete feast!

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta
• Salt for water

For the creamy sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the spinach

• 4 cups fresh spinach (about 8 oz, packed)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For garnishing

• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

🥄 Adding salt to the water enhances the pasta flavor. Don’t skip this step!

2. Prepare the creamy sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Create the creamy goodness: Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

🌱 For a lighter sauce, increase the liquid (add more pasta water) and reduce the cheese.

4. Add the spinach: Fold in the fresh spinach, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the red pepper flakes for a kick if desired.

5. Combine: Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

6. Serve: Plate the creamy spinach penne and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and cracked black pepper to taste.

🥄 Serving it immediately ensures that the pasta remains warmed through and the sauce is delectably creamy!

Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the mix for extra protein. Cook them separately and toss them in at the end!
• Mushroom lovers: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onion for an earthy flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that complements the creaminess beautifully.
• Gluten-free: Swap regular penne for a gluten-free version using chickpea or brown rice pasta.

Enjoy your creamy, dreamy meal that's both satisfying and nourishing! 🍽️✨