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- 8 ounces spaghetti - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced - 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - Salt, to taste - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

30-Minute Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Spinach

Discover a nutritious twist on a classic Italian favorite with Spinach-Infused Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. This vibrant dish combines garlic, olive oil, and fresh spinach, creating a deliciously quick meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with essential nutrients, it's perfect for busy weeknights. Complete your dinner with garnishes of Parmesan cheese and parsley for added flavor. Experience the joy of cooking a healthy, yet flavorful pasta dish that your family will love.
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Ingredients
  

400g spaghetti

5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Zest of 1 lemon

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.

    Prepare Aglio e Olio Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic turns golden but not burnt. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking.

      Add Red Pepper Flakes: Once the garlic is golden, add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds to infuse the oil with flavor.

        Incorporate Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

          Toss the Spaghetti: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta in the garlic oil and spinach mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

            Finish & Serve: Remove from heat, then add lemon zest and fresh parsley. Toss everything together. Plate the spaghetti and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

              Enjoy your meal! Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings