Romantic Pasta Recipe with Garlic and Spinach

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Optional: additional Parmesan for serving

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the spinach and tomato mixture in the skillet. Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually while tossing everything together to create a light sauce.
5. Season the pasta with salt, black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Toss well to combine all the flavors.
6. Serve the romantic pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired.