Easy Vegetarian Recipes for Beginners: Creamy Spinach Pasta

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta of your choice (penne or spaghetti)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy spinach sauce.
7. Finish by squeezing in the lemon juice and mixing well before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and enjoy your creamy spinach pasta!